If you can read this, thank a teacher

Like many in the community this week, our family was up bright and early on the first day of school, preparing our three children for a new year of learning. Everyone was a bit nervous; a bit excited and a bit tired on that first morning.

For us, we have children in grades 1, 4 and 7. For our oldest especially, this represents a new chapter, as he heads to a different school entirely. This comes with new experiences, such as, getting up earlier; riding the bus to school for the first time; being in a larger school setting and getting home later.

Thankfully, for all of our children, we believe that they are in good settings, with wonderful teachers.

I am confident that this is one of the strengths of our community – great teachers and educators. We are blessed in this region to have teachers who care about our children and grandchildren, and who often go far beyond what they are required to do.

We know that this has been the case with our children.

Of course, there are always those teachers who belittle their students or abuse their position of authority.

I remember one teacher I had in junior high who used to throw chalk at students when she was angry. She seemed to be angry a fair bit …

These types of individuals can creep into any position; they do what they do as a job.

But I would argue that the vast majority of folks in and around Truro who teach our children are dedicated people who give their very best on behalf of our kids. They want them to do well and succeed.

I would encourage anyone reading this column to let their kids’ or grandkids’ teachers know they are appreciative of them. Cheer them on. They have a challenging responsibility. I know that I wouldn’t want to do what they do.

And if you are a Christ follower reading this, may I give you something to consider? Pray for our teachers. Pray for the children in the school nearest you. Pray for the safety of our kids, as well as the teachers and staff.

We are all part of this community and we will be better off for it if we lift one another up.

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Before I wrap up this week’s column, I would like to also briefly address the content of my last one, dealing with my disappointment at the current regulations regarding street banners.

I would like to thank all the readers who responded to me, both those who supported my position and those who were against. I count it as a high privilege to be able to write for this paper and am appreciative of those who take the time to read what I share.

I did contact those individuals who I had indicated I would, and to their credit, each one responded.

Not all of them agreed with my point of view, but it is my understanding that this matter has been forwarded to town council for consideration.

I trust they will seriously discuss the need for inclusivity on this matter and recognize that permitting banners from those with “religious convictions” does not mean the town endorses that religion, as some might argue it does.

I am hopeful we can live in a community where not only Christians could have the right to a banner, but Muslims, Jews or any other faith-based community, along with any other credible charity that wishes to do so.