We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future not our own.
As we begin another school year, how do we ‘get our head right’ so that we approach the year with anticipation rather than boredom or dread? One answer is perspective. We are doing God’s work, so it’s not all up to us. We do our bit – God does the rest. I have found that a liberating notion. It is also liberating if, like me, you are a ‘recovering perfectionist’. No need to stress!
Ultimately, it gets down to our relationships with young people. We are educators because we love ministering to young people. We are also privileged to write a line or two of a letter on the hearts of young people ‘not with ink, but by the spirit of the living God’. May that ‘fire you up’! Such enthusiasm will touch the hearts of the young people entrusted to our care – and maybe help them glimpse more of the good in themselves which comes from the source of all good, God.
Wishing each of you a blessed 2014!
Patrick
livedgospel 
Great post Pat. Timely reminder.
I was lucky enough to meet one of your former students yesterday at Saint John of God Hospital in Geelong.
I had to go in for a colonoscopy – follow up to one 3 years ago – this time good news – no polyps or other problems.
The nurse that looked after me was Greg Mangan (not sure if I got the spelling right?).
Ex St Bede’s student – you did teach him. As expected, he spoke highly of you. I was proud to explain you were my friend and that we go way back- to the 80’s!
All the best for the new term,
Carl
Hey mate,
Glad your tests were routine. Yeah, Greg is a lovely fella! I’ve managed to con a few people over the years 😉 Seriously, AnneMaree works with his mum Helen at the parish in Cheltenham!! Catholic circles, huh!!!!