We met yesterday with Willis. He talked with us the entire morning. He thinks M shouldn't risk going to RHS, and should prove that he can finish strong while homeschooling....he doesn't think M is ready. So that threw a damper on M's enthusiasm and yet served as another voice in his life who refuses to soft pedal the choices M is making and how vulnerable he is. Willis repeated so many things we've told M in the last few days, it became funny. But Willis has a gift for communicating, for motivating, for encapsulating a truth. M responded afterwards that Willis had so much right in his observations that it was hard to say that he disagreed with his assessment that he should stay home. He definitely gave M something to think about.
Then we came home and my dear friend Beth came over. She mentioned that she and her pastor had been invited to Uganda for two weeks in February to teach there, but they needed a third person to go (so it wouldn't look like the pastor was running off with a parishioner!). I suggested M. She immediately yelled upstairs to him, 'M, do you want to go with me to Uganda?' Totally took him off guard, but wouldn't that be an incredible opportunity for him? He could teach a sports camp, or play with children at an orphanage, or read stories to children, or whatever! He's not sure he wants to yet, but he's thinking about it....
Then our priest came over and and talked with M. M said later that it wasn't so intense as our meeting with Willis, and said it was a welcome break. I am glad that he and the priest hit it off well.
So I guess we're no closer to deciding what to do for school, than we were. But at least we're listening, evaluating, thinking about the options and the ramifications. The photo is of the sky this morning, and it's reflective of the hope I dared to feel after all the days discussions.
4 comments:
How do you know Willis and is M playing baskbetball for Willis?
What a crazy idea to send M to Uganda! That would be awesome. I like that you are so open to creative solutions. That would be the most challenging part of this pickle - to give up. You never do. It's your greatest strength, Beth.
I was just thinking what a creative mother you are, Beth. You think outside the box and find unique ways to help your children grow. They really are blessed to have you.
Susan
He's played basketball with Willis since late summer... and he used to be there all the time. But since basketball season has started, most of the other players are on their school's teams...and thus there aren't as many occasions to get with Willis, who coaches a summer league team. So... M has not been in daily contact with him, has not pursued friendships with those teammates, etc. We put him with Willis just because we learned about him, met him, and were very impressed, and wanted that kind of influence for M. So now is the time when that really comes to bear! But M has to choose whether or not to value W's viewpoint...
For what it's worth I think Uganda is an awesome solution! Even the simple mission trips my kids have done have had a huge impact on them. This sounds like an amazing opportunity for learning, perspective, and growth.
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