Transferable Skills

“It would seem that you have no useful skill or talent whatsoever," he said. "Have you thought of going into teaching?”   ― Terry Pratchett, Mort

My tūtū (grandma) could cook and create delicious treats, my dad can build, paint, and play the trumpet, my mom is an accountant, my sisters are CNAs and social workers who help the aging, one brother is an electrician, another brother is a boat captain, and my other half works for a phone/TV/internet company.  ALL of them have been tapped into and called upon for their talent and specialties numerous times within the past month, but me - an educator - not so much.  In fact, the one thing I've been called upon for help the most is to assist with the writing of resume.

What a strange realization it is to think I have no transferable and useful skill which people can tap into.  I LOVE my job, I KNOW education is important, I SEE the positive impact we have on students, and I am PASSIONATE about my calling and purpose.  So what do I offer the world?  

I pondered and came to the conclusion that I don't serve adults as much as I serve and grow children.  I encourage questioning and wonder.  I create opportunities for discovery.  I validate feelings.  I counsel.  I meet student needs.

Not much of what I have to offer will produce an immediate outcome.  My work will only be realized many many years down the road.  But I have hope and I wholeheartedly believe it is not for naught.

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