Year Three, How Can it Be?

I find myself saying a phrase repeatedly these days, one that expresses astonishment coupled with bewilderment: How can it be? How can it be that I've been out of college for this long? How can it be that I have friends living across the country and outside of it!? How can it be that this year will be my third in teaching?

Things have definitely changed since my first experience in the teaching profession. A little less naivete, a little more sarcasm, the same amount of fervor and passion for doing the best I can for the students entering my classroom. How can it be that I'm still a little nervous?

The reality of the fact that one never stops questioning their abilities in teaching is starting to sink in a little deeper... and I am beginning to see it painted in a positive shade. This is a distinguishing feature in the aptitude of a teacher. Without the questioning and self-evaluating, there would be no purpose in striving for improvement. I find this to be true, whatever profession one has taken.

My third year of teaching is a chapter I am eager to enter into and explore. There will be plenty of new challenges and ways for me to stretch myself in my profession. I am glad I do not feel as alone this year. I find myself more and more comfortable with life post graduation. The friends that have come along and those who have remained near are a source of great comfort, and I am ever thankful for their presence. How can it be that I got to be so lucky?

How can it be is a phrase that I will continue to repeat throughout year three... ranging from marrying off another dear friend and family member, to visiting the ones who live far from my home, to the fact that I will be completing yet another year of teaching. Amazing!

How can it be...