Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Half-Time

This morning we celebrated half-time in Seminary. Pretzels, popcorn and a mock free throw challenge, just like the NBA. In a somewhat-mixed sports metaphor, we compared (loosely) Simon Peter to Santonio Holmes. I forgot that we were supposed to do The Wave, too, but it was still a pretty good lesson.


We are midway through the schoolyear and have made it through the first half of the New Testament. Definitely time for a pep talk and refreshments.


The hardest thing about being a Seminary teacher is that class is every single morning. At six.

The best thing about being a Seminary teacher is that class is every single morning. At six.


There is something very vulnerable about that hour. People are just more real before dawn. Words are harder to muster and, therefore, a lot more valuable. Just like my daily workouts--some days I come away on a complete high, other days I'm just tired. But everyday, I'm glad I made the effort. And I know that consistency is the key to strength and success.

Teaching Seminary is stretching me into a better person, reminding me how hard high school can be, helping me gear up for teenagers of my own. I've found a group of good friends--some in the seats and some in the pages.

And, yes, I think we deserve a half-time cheer.

19 comments:

Shauna said...

You are awesome! ♥ Hugs :)

Lanette - Never Give Up! said...

I taught seminary for 6 years - The most wonderful, challenging, growth producing and exhausting calling in the church. Congrats on making it halfway - your students are lucky to have you. (I'm just a happy stalker of your fun blog)

Travelin'Oma said...

Those kids are so lucky to have you! I am in awe of your dedication and hard work to serve up a wonderful feast every morning. Sometimes it might be eaten with gusto, and other times it might be like cold cereal but it's all nourishing and starts the day out right. Good for you!

Christie said...

I am very impressed with your positivity. I think that is the one calling that would send me over the edge. Way to go.

Lauren in GA said...

I love the analogy you used...I just know you are a fabulous seminary teacher.

I loved this post. I loved how you said that you have found good friends, "some in the seats and some in the pages." I know it takes a lot of effort to do what you do each day. You are a great example, to me. Truly.

laina kay said...

You rock! I'm so impressed that you do this. I'm a YW advisor and find it challenging to teach a lesson twice a month and at a decent hour. Six a.m., every day, with enthusiasm and creativity... you truly are amazing!

martha corinna said...

Wow! You are awesome Gab. It sounds like they are lucky to have you.

In Minnesota we were too spread out to have early morning seminary, so we had it after church every Sunday and then we were supposed to do home school. Whatever!
You just made me realize that I probably wasn't very supportive of my teachers and their service. I think I rolled my eyes a few too many times and made smart comments.Your post has made me want to track them down and thank them for their dedication.

brooke said...

My sister teaches early morning seminary in CA and I'm in awe of both of you. The kids are so lucky to have such a great and dedicated teacher. I wish I could come listen--just not at 6am. I love your line about finding friends in the seats and the pages.

Annie said...

I'm sending Bruce Springsteen over to be your half-time musical entertainment.

Hats off to you, Sister Gabi! They are so lucky to have you be the start of their day each morning. Don't be fooled by the sleepy, zombie looks--they're absorbing a lot and will love you for life.

queenieweenie said...

you deserve a medal. i could no more get up early every morning than be a brain surgeon!

kara jayne said...

That post made me actually wish I taught seminary...your good...really good!

cami said...

You are *amazing* for teaching seminary. They are a lucky bunch of kids and I hope they appreciate you!

cami said...

Hey Gab! While I agree that you are awesome, I have to say that out here in Arizona, we don't appreciate the Santonio Holmes reference! -Ryan (using Cami's account)

diane said...

You GO GAB!

I don't know how you do it.

What a fun lesson.

My daughter's teacher brought a two by four and had them take turns holding it up on their shoulders like Christ carrying his cross. I don't know how you guys come up with such cool stuff.

Robin said...

There is a special place in heaven for early morning seminary teachers. Last Sunday I was in church in Los Angeles and the Bishop was talking about how proud he was of the kids who go to early morning seminary. He said, "It's sooo early and sometimes it is very very cold!". Like 65 degrees? Burr.

You are great.

Jenibelle said...

Amen.






Oh, and thanks for sharing the idea....oops.

Sally said...

I bet you are an amazing teacher. My husband recently taught early morning seminary for 4 years. He had a love/hate relationship with the calling, but he really loved being with the students and starting his day on such a positive note. And now he's so glad it's over! :)

Celia Fae said...

So I guess I should and shouldn't hope for that calling someday?

I admire your fortitude and attitude and gratitude. Dude.

Jeanelle said...

I've fallen behind on my commenting but just wanted to say yay yay yay for you and every seminary teacher. As a 4 year perfect attendance at early morning seminary (yay me!), thank you for getting up every day to teach our youth!!!

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...