Monday Musings No. 7

Happy Monday! I hope all of you had a wonderful weekend!

We were blessed to spend some time volunteering at Barrett Elementary this weekend for Serve Day with our church. I could easily write a novel on the impact that a few hours spent cleaning a school had on me both mentally and emotionally but I will do my best to keep it short and sweet. I know I am stepping away from my usual lighthearted content (again) but I feel called to share what is happening in the lives of these children.

Barrett Elementary School was founded in 1901 in the East Lake area of Birmingham and houses grades Pre K-5. Upon arrival, the first thing that struck me was the concrete barriers that were blocking a lot of the surrounding streets. I was informed that these barriers were set in place to help cut down on the number of drive by shootings that were happening around the school. The barriers were established to prohibit vehicles from making a “quick escape” after firing. Take a moment to let that sink in…..

After spending the morning cleaning classrooms, some of which we were informed did not have AC, I had the opportunity to speak with the Principle of Barrett about their greatest needs. My heart broke when she informed me that more than anything, the students needed someone to show up and tell them that they are valued and loved. As a Mom, I cannot imagine Gabe or Shep ever waking up and not knowing how much I love, value, and pray for them. She told me that someone showing up once a month for these kids would have more of an impact than anything of monetary value. The children at Barrett are not exactly the ones that have parents volunteering to be “room mom” and planning sweet little activities for them throughout the year.

The principle also mentioned that they struggle with literacy and have done their best to create cozy “reading corners” throughout the school to encourage the children to enjoy reading. They urge the students to take home books and keep them for as long as they like. She requested that we bring used books for the children if possible because they are always running out. When I asked her about many of the broken desks and chairs for the students she informed me that the federal funding they receive isn’t allowed to be used for new furniture. Without parents to help with booster clubs and fundraising, there simply isn’t enough funding to cover new furniture. They are truly doing the best they can with what they have.

Maybe I am typing all of this to hold myself accountable or maybe I am hopeful that it will spark something in your heart. I want to show up for these children. I want to show up and tell them that I love them and I care about them. I want to show up with brand new books because they deserve new things and they are worthy of new things. Please don’t get me wrong, I love used books but there is a difference in choosing to purchase used books and only receiving second hand items because no one deemed you worthy of having something new. I’m not setting out to change the whole system but I am setting out to make a difference. Isn’t that what we are called to do?

Ok, my blog post got a little lengthy again…. I wish I was a better writer and could more eloquently convey the needs of these precious children. My words aren’t eloquent but they are real and I hope that they will inspire you to pray for these little ones and the educators that try to make a difference in their lives. If you feel moved to do more than pray that is wonderful but all I am asking for is your prayers. I believe prayer can spark miracles and I am looking for a miracle for Barrett Elementary School this year!

Have a wonderful week, friends!