Why I Do What I Do and Where I Do It
I suppose it's best to start this blog with a little about myself so my readers will know where I'm coming from. About 10 years ago now, I, a middle class white lad, decided to take the plunge and teach in the inner-city. I also decided that I would intentionally live in the community in which I teach. I made this decision as sort of a calling, a mission if you will. Mind you, as a socially-minded evangelical Christian, I believe all believers are called to serve the poor and work for social justice. I also believe we are all called to leave our comfort zones to both do the work of the kingdom, and to put ourselves in a place where we will grow and learn. I can't say that i entered public school teaching because I "believe" in the public school system. (I'm fully aware that in my job I am an agent of the state, and that creates a constant tension for me.) But let's say that I see myself as "in the system but not of it." Oh, there is still some good in the public schools,. I myself am a product of public schools from K all the way through college, and am pleased with the preparation for life I received. Nonetheless, I am under no illusion the schools or education are the ultimate answer to all the problems of the world. I am there, not primarily to be an agent of the state, but to do the work of the kingdom of God in a strategic position. My job and my calling are separate, yet intertwined. I chose my job because it is the perfect place to live out my calling in accordance with my particular gifts. Yet, in a way I see myself as subversive, because my reasons and goals for being there can conflict with the purposes of the system. I'm sure I'll get more into that in my wirting. So there you have it. For nearly 10 years now I have been in the trenches of the inner-city schools of America, trying to see how I can play a small role in God's great plan of redemption for the world. I have learned much and I have seen much. Lord knows I've seen it all!! As you can possibly imagine. My greatest regret so far is not having kept a consistent journal of my experiences over the years. Hopefully the opening of this weblog will be a begining for that very thing to happen.
3:46:42 AM 
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