To “bite the bullet” is to decide to do something difficult or unpleasant that one has been putting off or hesitating over. Thinking “outside the box” is a metaphor that means to think differently, unconventionally, or from a new perspective. A “paradigm shift” is a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions. All of these describe the 2020 return to school experience and offerings. To say that Covid’s impact on school reopening has “run the gamut” (to encompass an entire range of something) is an understatement. How do we individually micromanage something that is so huge and far reaching? How am I as a parent to lead my family? When do I challenge and when do I accept?
One says science will determine the best option, but then a decision is made without science. One says that our children’s health is most important, but agreement cannot be reached on health impacts. One thing that is certain is that there is no shortage of rhetoric, drama and opinions. Covid-19 has equipped us all with an excuse to “take the path of least resistance.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” We can do this. We can move forward putting one foot in front of the other and travel this road.
Our children will be fine as long as we are walking by their side and “checked in” to their experiences. Even though this will “test” us all, it should make us better and stronger and more dependent upon the Lord. Don’t be encompassed by drama and the “he said/she said.” One thing I have been reminded of during this time of challenge is how far off course we can talk ourselves. We must be sensible and remember that God is still on His Throne.
Don’t make decisions based on fear. Fear is the tool used by God’s enemy to cripple us. Psalm 56:3-4 (NLT): “But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God for what He has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?” God has given us His sweet promises to cling to at times like these.
“My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly.”
Proverbs 3:21-24 (NLT)
We have been introduced to something called a “hybrid” model for education with time in class and virtual learning. The definition of hybrid is “a thing made by combining two different elements; a mixture.” With the unfamiliar taking place in our lives, we are to take one day at a time, as Jesus explains in Matthew 6:34 (NLT): So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Don’t be part of the problem, but rather part of the solution. Make reasonable inquiries, it may cause those making decisions to pause. Hebrews 11:6 (NLT): “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to Him must believe that God exists and that He rewards those who sincerely seek Him.”
