The River View Journey

 I find myself at a loss these days. Mostly this loss surrounds job hunting and a career and a basic income to provide for me and my kids. I have lost count of the number of jobs I have applied for. But, haven’t found anything to apply for in four months.  In nearly 2 years of seriously apply for jobs, I have gotten five interviews. 2 interviews were for teaching positions. I have put all the pieces I could I into place so that I can teach full time. But, even though what I have spent money pursuing is a valid path in Pennsylvania, referenced on the Depart of Education website, few districts seem willing to work with it. And, though I have gotten interviews, there always seems to be someone younger, with the right degrees, who perused the preferred path to teach. I have shown effectiveness in the classroom. I tried to show dedication. But, I have only gotten a big “F you”. That is how it feels. In actuality, I only know that “admin doesn’t like” me. Though, I job search daily,...

 Some days just bring a person down. A lot about these first  days of 2024 have been a struggle. They have reminded me of a chronic frame of mind that I live in as “less than” and with low self-esteem. And, as the job hunt remains dismal, I am finding it hard to dig out of this place. Four and a half years ago, my life drastically changed. I left active, full time ministry. But, most people have no idea what happened. Or, if they think they do from one of the other parties involved, they don’t know my side of the story.  Here goes… I allowed someone to get too close to me and me too close to them. After nearly 20 years of an unhealthy work-life balance try as I might to keep it healthy, I was burnt out and made a choice about a relationship with this person that turned out to be a poor choice on many levels. Nothing happened with the (adult) person except an emotional connection and some kissing. I turned myself into my supervisor. I was suspended and forced to take an un...