On the commencement of my retirement, having dedicated the last several decades to public service in education—wearing many hats from classroom teacher, specialist, tech director, to chief security officer—I find myself immersed in a mix of emotions. Education hasn’t just been a job; it’s been a large part of my world, shaping a lot of who I am today. Now, as I’m about to say goodbye to the familiar surroundings of K-12 environments, I can’t help but think about the amazing journey that brought me here.
Firstly, I want to thank everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. To my fellow educators, administrators, and tech colleagues who supported me through thick and thin, I wouldn’t be where I am today without your help. I have many memories and lasting friendships that will stay with me forever.
Secondly, expressing gratitude to my immediate and extended family seems like an understatement. The demanding hours of my career occasionally kept me away, and I am profoundly grateful for their unwavering grace and understanding. I hope the moments we shared compensated for the times apart. Brian and Megan have grown into exceptional young adults, and I’m confident Melinda would concur. I’m particularly thankful for the blessing of April, whom I believe God sent into our lives. As we embark on this new adventure, your prayers will be greatly appreciated.
Retirement isn’t just an end; it’s a fresh start. It’s a chance to find new interests, explore new places, and discover a new purpose. For me, faith has always been there, guiding me throughout my journey, and I carry that faith with me into the unknowns of retirement. When things are uncertain, I turn to the Bible for comfort and guidance, finding wisdom about trusting in God’s plan.
Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds me, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” These words resonate deeply as I navigate this transition. I trust that God, who has guided me through the many challenges I have faced over the years, will continue to guide me in this next season of life.
Retirement brings a mix of excitement and many unknowns. It’s stepping into a new chapter, a leap of faith into the future. Psalm 20:4 encapsulates this sentiment beautifully: “May he grant your heart’s desires and make all your plans succeed.” As I embark on this journey, I pray for discernment to understand God’s desires for this next phase of my life.
Gratitude is not just a feeling; it’s an action. Therefore I want to say THANK YOU to GOD for the strength, resilience, and opportunities He provided me throughout my career thus far. As I begin to look forward, I am reminded of Melinda’s favorite verse Philippians 4:13, which declares, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” With this verse in mind, I am confident that God’s strength will carry me forward as I navigate the challenges and opportunities that my future holds.
Some say retirement is a time for reflection and a time for celebration. I agree but currently, I do not see myself retiring; I am just exiting TRS and moving on to other opportunities. Even though, I would like to celebrate the achievements, the friendships, and the growth that my career has brought into my life. Most importantly, if I do not see you again in this life I pray you know Jesus and we will meet again in the next life.
In the past 50 years, I have had many ups and downs. Throughout it all God has always been there waiting on me. It was not until I was 45 that I truly met Him. It is why I now celebrate Him and have faith that he will continue to sustain me as he has during these last few years. As I step into this new chapter, I reflect on Isaiah 41:10: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.“
In conclusion, my heart is filled with gratitude as I retire from a fulfilling career in education. To my colleagues, friends, and family—THANK YOU for being a part of this incredible journey. As I step into the unknown, I trust in God’s plan and hold onto the promise that He will guide me through this next chapter. Retirement is not the end; it’s a new beginning, and with faith as my compass, I eagerly embrace what lies ahead.
If you would like to know more about my faith in Jesus please reach out. I would love to talk to you about it.
