I have been a primary teacher for somewhere between 18 months and two years. I don't remember exactly when I was called. For the majority of that time, I have had the same class - all girls, from the time they were six through their baptisms last year. They moved me up with them last year, so it's just been me and "the girls." I love those girls - they are all so awesome in their diverse ways and it was fun to get some girl talk for a change. This year, they gave me a different class. On a crowded Sunday, there are four children in my class. On a day like today, there are two. Three weeks ago, they released the second counselor in the presidency (hi, Suzanne!), and I was totally bummed. I just like her so much and enjoy having the chance to talk to her in Primary. Last week I was thinking about who they could call, hoping with all my heart it would be someone I like. Suddenly, a thought came to me. "Um, it could be YOU." I realized that I am not immune to such a calling - and it was a shocker to me. Even though I'll be 32 next week, I still feel so young and inexperienced; often I feel like a 17 year old just graduated out of high school playing babysitter to these boys. It's just all so "grown-up." Anyway, I realized I
am a grown-up and that I am NOT immune to heavy-duty callings. But I laughed it off - no way. Today, Missy's husband John - the assistant executive secretary - came and asked which hour I was teaching. "Hmmm..." I thought, "here we go." Sure enough, a member of the bishopric pulled me aside since none of my class were there yet. And since Keven, the primary president (who happens to be fiercely protective of her staff and will keep them at all costs) didn't seem upset that I was obviously being pulled out for a new calling - I knew. Sure enough, you are looking at our ward's new second counselor in the Primary presidency. I'm not freaking out - yet. I don't know why me. I'm a terrible procrastinator, horribly disorganized, and lots of little details tend to send my mind into overdrive and it shuts down, as friends who have tried to plan anything with me can attest.
But I'm looking at it as a humbling experience to get myself in gear. I'm going to need the Lord's help more than ever. I have needed help for a long time, and haven't asked enough. I'm too afraid, not enough faith? I don't know... Now, how can I not ask? I want to do a good job - and I have some huge shoes to fill. I need to be able to give the presidency the support they need and the children the leader they need, all while being a good mother to my boys.
I'm leaving my thoughts there for now - can't think of what else to say.
14 comments:
Kelli, you're going to be AWESOME! You'll add that creative and practical element that's always so necessary in any presidency. what an exciting opportunity! Don't be pysched, you'll be great.
I was so excited for you when I heard, you are going to be great, ditto what Jenny said, you are seriously perfect for the job! And what a fun calling, to still get to be with your kiddos. Almost makes me want to be in Primary again...almost! LOL!
Teaching in primary is one of the most full-filling callings there is....and being in the Primary Presidency is just as awesome!! I love it! It's the best combination of being able to care for the precious children of the ward and still having responsibility!
So, congratulations!! You are gonna have a blast ;).
You know I have no idea what most of this means – but Congratulations anyway! I’m sure you’ll be great! :-)
Hey i found your blog!! your family is too cute! congratulations on the new calling! i would be freaked out too! You'll do great though!!!!!
The thing that freaks me out the most in Primary is the thought of doing Sharing Time. I was so lucky when I taught Primary my class never had to do it! I think you will be great. When John told me I was like "Oh that makes total sense." Plus Kevin always gets what she wants! :) If you need any help you know I will!
Kelli, the Lord knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows our weaknesses, but He also see's our potential. You wouldn't have been extended this calling if He didn't have faith in you. Now in return, just have faith in Him and it will all be okay, you'll be great!
Congratulations, I know you'll do great. Rely on your frriends and family and it will be a great experience. Love Mom
Missy - I am most freaked out by the sharing time thing. Totally.
And thanks for the good thoughts to everyone else!
I'm a day late, but I'll just put it this way - I've had the same calling (2nd counselor in Primary) for over two years and I have pink hair, so you don't have to be a grownup! Our ward is very 'special needs'(think inner-city Atlanta and you'll get it,) so it's been a challenge, but at the same time, I love being in Primary. Just have fun with the kids and use the internet for sharing time ideas.
There's this website I highly recommend:
www.sugardoodle.net
People submit their sharing time ideas for others to use...I used that when I was doing sharing times 3x a month! I never thought up my own ;)!!
And if ya'll don't have one...your first order of business is to suggest calling a "Sharing Time Coordinator"...it takes SO much pressure off the presidency!
Kelli
You will do great. One of the reasons I was attracted to you is because you are real. Of course it will be a challenging calling but there is always a benefit at the end, and I know you know that working with children is something you were destined to do!
You're going to do a great job in the Presidency. You care about the kids and they will be able to tell that and respond well to you.
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