Okay, for those that actually “end” their school years, we are right at that moment! For lots of us the “end” just kind of melds into the “beginning” of the next one! Usually though it’s just at this time of year that we need to regroup, refresh, and perhaps even change direction. But just the thought of regrouping, refreshing, and changing might be disturbing right now when all we really want is to have wrapped it up so we can forget about it for a little while. However, it might be that a little evaluating would give us just the boost we need as we plan and move on into the next season of schooling. So here are some thoughts about getting a fresh start, even at the end of the school year.
No Comparisons!
It’s not fair to me or to the person I am comparing myself to. I will either compare myself to someone who doesn’t “perform” as I think they should...thus lifting myself higher than I ought to or...I will look up to someone who “has it all together” thus lifting them up higher than I ought. We should only compare ourselves to the mirror of God’s word, the Bible and allow God to show us “the look” he wants for our family. Every family will have its own style, its own expression, and its own way of doing things. What works for one family, may not work for another.
Get Refreshed!
And by that I mean..get refreshed in the Lord again! The joy of the Lord should be our strength. Nearing the end of the school year, we may find ourselves bursting in frustration at the magnitude of what still needs to be done. We turn our focus on what has not been instead of what has been accomplished. It’s ok to take some time to refresh and refocus on what could be done this summer to fill in the gaps...making sure to refresh the family in God’s Word and allow him to revive our hearts.
Recheck your priorities!
Sometimes it seems that many families who struggle with managing time and resources are those that stay the busiest! We may find that homeschooling has turned more into car schooling or co-op schooling. If there are more studies and activities outside the home than within...we should consider well if priorities are in balance. They may well be - every family has different circumstances and activities. We just all need to make sure our activities are in line with what God has for our families. Just because something is free or priced well doesn’t mean we should take part in it. We must make sure our activities and resources are going toward things that promote family unity rather than division, and we must pray about what ministries or giftings God has granted our family and pursue those activities. This summer may be a good time to regroup as a family...enjoying some time away from “busyness.”
Plan Ahead!
It is never too early to plan ahead for the upcoming school year. Home school conventions held during the summer are great times to refresh and refocus on what lies ahead. Set up a balanced structure that allows freedom to fall behind or skip ahead when necessary. Our schedules should not be so concrete that there is no peace in the home or room for error.
If we find ourself in a season that seems more discouraging than uplifting, we should remember this...it is just that...a season! This will pass and with careful prayer and planning, we’ll be able to go on stronger than before with renewed hope and vision!
