Grace Damian
A Message Of Hope
Perspective Of A Teacher
When we reflect on 2020, we will remember it as a year of distress, but better yet, it will be remembered as a year of compassion and human resilience. As an Educator in the Ontario school system, I have observed a variety of obstacles faced by many people from different walks of life. It is in this role that I have seen how a pandemic can shake people at their very core and expose their truest values, fears, and doubts in life. From matters of equity and its disproportionate distribution of privilege to the matters of free will to wear a mask or not; our lives are riddled with conflicting views that cultivate chaos. However, the world’s chaos is the canvas in which the beautiful gospel can be drawn.
Today, children are forced to learn from home, parents are challenged with work-life balance to the greatest degree, and grandparents are plunged into a foreign world of intimidating technology or lonely isolation. Every generation has its unique challenges and is forced to adapt quickly. It is through these obstacles that we have been called to show compassion towards one other and have learned to become more resilient. No other time before the pandemic have we been so interdependent on each other. From children stepping up in responsibility at a younger age to grandparents stepping in to help their child ease the load of parenting. Many have stepped forward to come to the aid of another.
Christ has equipped you and I with the Holy Spirit to influence change for His glory whether it be big or small. In every interaction we have, we leave an impression on someone’s life, whether it is a positive or negative one is our choice. Christ has given me the opportunity as a Teacher to alter the course of people’s reaction to the pandemic and He’s prepared you to do the same in whatever role He’s placed you in. So, let’s answer the daily call Christ gives us to spur others on with love and encouragement. Let’s continue supporting one another through His word and in prayer as we embark on a brighter year ahead.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in your faith, so that in the power of the Holy Spirit you may be rich in hope. - Romans 15:13