Changes in the Wind

In the US we have an expression of “being stretched out of shape.” In the Philippines that idiom is related to the bamboo as it is flexible.

Bamboo is a grass that grows as tall as a tree and is known for its ability to bend but not break. In the twists and turns of life, I sometimes feel like God is bending me out of shape. But that feeling is a good feeling because it draws me to Him—relying on God for strength and direction. 2Co 12:9 reads, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

Do you remember the saying, “Never say Never”? In high school I said I would never be a missionary or a school teacher. On the mission field, I said I would never teach at Faith Academy. For a long time, I have said I would never be an administrator—“I want to teach and be with students, not sit in boring meetings.”

Well, a few months ago I said that to a colleague who was challenging me to go into administration. When I said that, I felt a tug in my heart as if God was saying, “Why did you say, ‘never’?” I started talking with the middle school principal and he shared with me that he wanted to go on a short, 6-month furlough. Our discussions continued through first quarter and ended with a conference with the superintendent.

During that whole process I discussed it with Cheryl and our children and prayed much about it. Our superintendent gave the invitation and we accepted it. Second quarter has been filled with meeting and plans for me to transition out of the classroom and into the middle school principal’s office.

If you remember last school year, we asked prayer for more teachers. The teacher we were hoping to teach math was delayed so I filled in during her absence. Well, God did raise her support and she is here taking over my math class. My Discovery students were more challenging to decide what to do with them. We decided that I would keep one (so I am not totally out of the classroom). Another student, I am transitioning into a different program that is actually more suitable for him, and the last one I am excited to say he is graduating from our program. He is a freshman and received all A’s first semester and is doing well in therapy.

First quarter I was busy with the senior class. We had a lock-in (I am getting too old for that), a money-making adventure (sold Sloppy Joes and rented video games), and lastly—the senior play—a huge undertaking. All went well and the seniors continue to grow and mature—May 30 is coming quickly.

Basketball season is here with all its busyness. Our record is not near as good as it was last year, but they continue to improve and gain experience. Ben is busy with basketball and finishing up requirements for his Eagle rank in Boy Scouts. Paul had a great soccer season first quarter but is enjoying some free time second quarter. Ben and Paul continue in band; the choir has invited Paul to play his trumpet at a few concerts. Ashley and Juliana continue in band and piano. First quarter both played volleyball and now both are in basketball. Abby is learning to play the piano with Ashley as her teacher. Her class also presented in elementary chapel with a reminder that Christ should be our focus at Christmas.

Thank you for praying for us. Continue to pray for our finances as the value of the dollar continues to drop in the Philippines.

In Christ,

Walter for the Seven Spicers