Providence

It is bizarre to think that the last time I wrote, I had no idea of what would come next.  I was completely in the dark.  Little did I know, within three weeks after graduation, I would have a full-time teaching position in Providence, Rhode Island.

Finding out about the job was one of the most gratifying moments of my life.  I will never forget what I was wearing or where I was sitting when I got the call.  I will also remember fighting the urge to call my mom in order to surprise her in person.  I should definitely look back on that moment more often.

The word Providence is defined as: "the protective care of God or of nature as a spiritual power".  Providence was given its name because it was a safe haven for those who settled at the time of colonization and the beginning of the country as we know it.  It has definitely held this meaning for me as well, for it has served as a place of protection and security for the past year and a half.  

Lately I have been thinking about what happens when we get what we want; what we've worked for.  I am so happy being a teacher, but I can't help but want more and want change.  I have conflicting thoughts and new aspirations that develop as each day goes by.  Is this a result of growing up in a consumerist society when we are always looking for the next best thing?

At the same time, I think of how my job has lead me to see greater needs that are present, and I feel that I am capable of helping to fulfill them for our nation's youth.  It is a scary time, and once again, uncertainty is back in the picture.  But that's what keeps things interesting, right?

xo,
Amanda