By: Valarie S. Nichols
Teaching was not my first choice. However,
it was my purpose in life to educate, mentor, coach, nurture, and
entertain my students. I believed that God's plan for me was to become a
psychiatrist; yet, that was to be an unfulfilled dream, as well as an entertainer.
Because of my father, my life would take a different path which would lead me
to teaching.
I had dreams of fame and fortune, but God knew my
fame and fortune would come from the love of my students and the wisdom and
knowledge imparted would be the riches that I reap. Each step that I
took, after earning a degree in Radio Television and Film (RTVF), directed me
to closed doors and missteps of failure.
When my father suggested that I become a substitute
teacher, I fought him every step of the way with concerns and issues. His
faith in me would lead me on the road not taken. The journey as a
substitute teacher for the first five years would open a door
fashioned with impending questions of what was I going to do with my
life.
Dr. Carol François had the answer. She
would be the next person leading me on the path to fulfilling my purpose in
life. Her encouraging words and willingness to let me work and attend
school at the same time allowed the next door to be opened. Finally,
an unknown dream was realized.
The first year was challenging and exciting, but
the students that I encountered would one day show me that this was my destiny.
I was to meet and be the angel in disguise when one was embroiled in an
abusive relationship. Another, debated having an abortion, and one called
me Mom; not to far removed from psychiatry. One day, I had an epiphany
and realized that my life had come full circle, and I was meant to be a
teacher.
Not just a teacher, but a teacher at Sunset.
"The wisdom that is from above is first pure, than peaceable." James
3:17. God had placed me at Sunset to do my student teaching. He
then placed people in my life to keep me there as a permanent teacher.
God has continually shown me favor and love throughout the 20 years of my
teaching experience. He has kept me through adversities that have been
both personal and professional.
Through it all, God has had His way for better or
worse. My path had been chosen. Never feeling anxious or regret, my life has
been filled with peace. Reflecting on the individuals who urged me to
take this certain course of action, I know God was the Director in every
step that I took. His continual influence keeps me grounded and believing
that my purpose, my profession was inevitable. Twenty years later, I
say humbly and proudly, I am forever and educator!
