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3. Participate in home visitations. These meetings strengthen the parent-teacher-student relationship, support proper
classroom decorum, and promote good student behavior. (At one time home visitations were very important, but I’m not

sure this concept is still encouraged).

4. Keep a sound mind, but allow for out-of-the-box creativity. Create a colorful, uncluttered atmosphere and exhibit the Fruit

of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-

Control. This mind-set is a sure-fire way to promotion. Never say “I,” but “We” were thinking this or that because in the
grand scheme of things, your credits will come. (Also, remember Galatians 6:9 ~ Be not weary in well doing: for in due season

you shall reap, if you faint not).

5. Keep order in your classroom. School administrators love teachers who can keep order in their classrooms, especially when

they can handle disruptive students. In corporate situations, try to use a positive approach to reduce or eliminate negative
confrontations. Make the aggressor feel loved; I found that exalting their gift (everybody has one) is a very positive strategy

– one that I used consistently. My friend Roz told me to say, “You are the Best in Your Field!” and move on. (Long

dissertations about a matter create unnecessary dilemmas and demonic scenarios).

“BUT GOD” Experiences

While teaching in Fort Pierce, Florida, I met a young man through a mutual friend. We developed a relationship and were married.

Over the summer of 1968, after my first year of teaching and my first year of marriage, I needed a job. My husband was working at a
service station, and I wasn’t teaching. We needed money. I overheard a neighbor in our apartment complex saying that she needed

someone to take her job, and I ran downstairs to inquire. It was a job to clean restrooms at the Florida Turnpike Station on both the

North and South sides. Well, we needed money, and I could not be picky at the time.