Looking Back, Reflecting Upon The Future

David Wilson
David Wilson

Recently I wrote a note to some individuals who are former colleagues of mine; individuals that I am glad to consider friends, and I wish to share it with you below. Some of it is very personal and I hope you don't mind. I worked the past 15 years as a school principal, (the most recent seven in Jefferson City, Mo.) and there were times in which it was very stressful. At the end of June, I retired out of the Missouri public education system and moved to Northwest Arkansas. I did that with the intention of jumping right back into an educational position when the opportunity is right. In the meantime, I have spent the most recent six months reading, resting, and preparing for whatever comes next. Here is what I shared:

At this time of year I am often drawn to think deeply about where life is going, to count blessings, and to maintain a proper perspective.

That is something that has extra meaning for me this year because since I have left Jefferson City, I have had almost six months in which I have cleared my mind and reflected. I have looked at many work possibilities and have gotten involved in a number of endeavors, but I have also had the liberty of having many days to follow my heart and my own interests.

Some of the focus has been on a number of circumstances around me, and some of it has been more introspective.

I've reviewed my experiences in education, thought about my family, and have been able to take time to nourish my own soul.

All of this has brought about a greater sense of stability and contentment in life--something that was greatly needed.

I have absolutely no regrets about the seven years I worked in Jefferson City. It was a time in which I learned and grew tremendously, and I will always be grateful for that. But it also took a toll on me, and when I left I was somewhat drained and ready to embrace a change.

Retirement provided that opportunity.

Recent months have enabled me to develop a deeper appreciation for all educational endeavors. Sometimes you have to get away from something to see it more clearly. More specifically, I realize that very often teachers and administrators get so immersed in the details and challenges of each day that they can't zero in on the priorities of their work. It becomes easy to get bogged down in the mire, and the onslaught of issues can sap away a person's energy and joy.

I have been very fortunate to have had a sabbatical of sorts that has helped clear my mind. Even though I stay very busy (I've worked some and have pursued various interests), I'm not bombarded by stress.

That feels very good when one begins to move on to the next chapter in life.

When I return to an educational role, I will do it with a deeper appreciation for the opportunities before me. I'll do it with an approach that is much less hurried and much less frantic. I will do it with a realization that perhaps I can make a greater contribution by slowing life down. In short, I will be calmer, steadier, and less frustrated with how each day unfolds.

Yes, I needed a break, but I never wanted to leave the working world for good. At this time, I simply look forward to whatever work my hand finds to do next.

In the last 15 years I worked at a very busy pace as a school principal, but I always knew in my mind that each day is a gift, a blessing, and a part of life to be enjoyed.

Now, after slowing down for just a while, I know it in my heart as well.

This is a time in which the details of my own future are uncertain, but also a time to look ahead to a new role that I feel prepared to assume.

Waiting to see what will transpire has an element of excitement about it. But it can also lead a person to ask countless questions and to grow impatient. (I've tried to refrain from doing the latter).

Charles H. Spurgeon, the great minister in England in the 1800s, once commented about how faith is important, even when we have no idea where life is leading or what the future holds. Sometimes we want to know all the details and have all the answers but they simply aren't there.

Spurgeon wrote, "God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart."

Those are wise words for me to remember at this time, wise words for all of us to consider as we approach a new year, and wise words for anyone to heed at any stage in life.

May your own journey always be one of purpose and fulfillment.

DAVID WILSON, EdD, OF SPRINGDALE, IS A WRITER, CONSULTANT AND PRESENTER, WHO GREW UP IN ARKANSAS BUT WORKED 27 YEARS IN EDUCATION IN MISSOURI. YOU MAY E-MAIL HIM AT [email protected]. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHOR.

Editorial on 01/04/2017