"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights." James 1:17
Last week, I had a very insightful conversation with a mom regarding my lunch duty responsibilities. Jokingly, she inquired, "Have you ever thought about how many containers of food you have opened throughout the years?"
As my mind raced to retrieve this information, I stated, "No, but I have a funny story about opening a little first grader's applesauce!"
It was a typical busy K - 2 lunch period. I was trying to multitask as best as I could when a sweet little first grade boy approached me in need of help opening his applesauce.
Distracted by trying to talk to others while opening his container, I pulled the lid off, threw the applesauce into the garbage can, and handed him the foil lid! Instantly, everyone froze in shock as we all stared at the garbage can holding the contents of his precious applesauce as he silently stood holding the lid. I could not get the words "I AM SO SORRY" out fast enough as the other kids started to laugh at my error. Fortunately, the cooks had more applesauce in the refrigerator, so I was able to fix my mistake; if you are wondering why your children want applesauce in their lunches, it is because everyone wants to see if they can get me to do this again!
After hearing my story, this sweet mom said, "That's a future newsletter story! You can remind everyone to remember how important it is not to throw out the good stuff!"
What a profound statement and so helpful, as I needed to write one more newsletter to conclude this school year! So many times, it's so easy to focus on something negative and totally miss multitudes of blessings in the process. When that happens, we tend to "throw out" the good stuff! As I was planning the 8th grade trip to NYC, I had to keep reminding myself that if things didn't go according to my agenda, it would be all right, and the Lord would work everything out. And guess what? He was so faithful! The actual agenda may not have followed my plan, but it worked out wonderfully!
This school year has been filled with many blessings - some of them planned and many unexpected, but all from the Lord. We are so grateful for His faithfulness and "goodness" that He has showered upon us!
To our eighth graders: God's richest blessings as you begin a new chapter in your academic journey! After just spending three entire days with you in New York City, it is so apparent that God has equipped and prepared you to do great things for His Kingdom. Always cling to the truth, "My God Can", and remember not to throw out the good stuff!
To our parents and students: We thank you and honor God for a wonderful school year!
God's richest blessings on your summer break. We look forward to all of the "good stuff" the Lord has waiting for us in the 2025/2026 school year!
In Jesus' Love,
Mrs. Palka