George is perhaps at his lowest moment in Chapter 4, as his career and his marriage appear to be on thin ice. He is especially despondent as he reflects on his boss's comments that he could no longer "carry him" as George struggled at work. George had always considered his boss to be his biggest supporter.
Though the tone of the chapter is depressed, we can look inside for positives: who do you consider to be your biggest supporter(s) at work? Though I have to say that I am blessed to work with many great people, I must say that working with Cindy in the office these first few weeks has been extraordinary! Cindy handles the pressures and demands of her job with dignity, grace, and professionalism, but she also goes the extra mile to do many little things to make my job easier and my day brighter. Please consider mentioning those who support you at SHS by commenting on this post.
I'd like to take a second and thank two people. First, Mr. Brad Hale. If I ever have a problem at work, whether it be a technical issue, a discipline situation, or even ideas about a simple lesson, I know I can count on Brad for some great advice. That man will drop everything he is doing to help in any way he can. He's a great co-worker to have, and an even better friend! Another person I'd like to thank is Mrs. Benavides. Dez was part of my interview team and she had a lot to do with my success during that interview. She had such a warm and welcoming smile, it took away all the anxiety and pressure I felt and allowed me to feel at ease while answering questions. She always exhibits that same personality every day. If I have a particularly rough hour, seeing her simple smile between classes gives me back that positive energy to tackle the next class. She has been my mentor these past 3 years and she has always kept her door open for me whenever I needed help--about work or even with personal issues. She's a bigger help than she probably realizes. Brad as well.
ReplyDeleteI would like to send a big shout out to my 7/8th grade team of Dez, Ann, Matt, and Brad. Adding social studies and language arts this year has taken some major extra thinking on my part and these great people are willing to hand me ANYTHING, even if it is something they have spend hours creating themselves, to help make my life easier. I can go to any of them with questions and all are always willing to help. Although the focus of this book is to remain positive, we all have to admit that there are times where venting is necessary to keep your sanity. Dez and Ann are wonderful at listening to me and usually by the time I am done, I have a smile on my face (usually because we are in the same boat!). I truly am blessed to work with all four!
ReplyDeleteAlso, Cheryl Heberling is in my opinion, the top substitute we have! I have worked with her quite a bit over the past year as she filled in for Kathy last year and is now directly across the hall from me filling in for Craig. She is super with my special ed students, is constantly bringing me materials from when she taught at the Christian school, and is a wonderful friend. I wish she were full-time on staff because she is so wonderful!
I have the same names as Craig and Holly. I feel so blessed to work with the people I do. They keep me grounded and young. Brad is always there to help me with my computer issues and just to talk about students' needs. I can always count on his positive outlook. Dez is also an important part in keeping me sane and on track. She is always there to listen and help me get the perspective I need. I also couldn't ask for better colleagues than Craig, Matt, and Holly. I know that I can ask them for anything and they always have my back. When I see or talk to any of these people, I always feel better. I know that they want what's best for me, and having that feeling at work is awesome!
ReplyDelete