The pandemic has changed the way we work and socialize. When Sheila Smith found herself frustrated by the new normal, she turned to God's word for encouragement. Now she shares 20 days of encouragement in her new book, Yes You Can!

Guest bio:
Sheila Smith has over twenty years of teaching music in the private sector and in several public-school systems. 

Coming from a family of educators, Sheila decided at an early age to set her goals towards becoming a teacher. Sheila has been actively involved in ministry in her local church through Children’s, Youth, and Women’s ministries.  She believes she has heeded a call from God to be an encouragement to children and adults.

Sheila is married to Roderick Smith, and they have one daughter, Jaiya Smith.  They each share a love for God, ministry, and music.

From the book:
Yes, You Can! : 20 days of Encouragement While Teaching & Living in a Post-pandemic World
Need encouragement while teaching or working with others? Have you asked if God could use you in your profession during the aftermath of a pandemic? Has your “classroom” and world been turned upside down?

As a veteran teacher and follower of Christ, I found myself asking those questions almost daily during a crisis that affected the world. How could I encourage my students or co-workers in front of a screen? My profession was not based on “click this video and learn”. (No offense to Vloggers and YouTubers!)

I made the transition from raising a child to empty nest and felt I had a lot to give to those around me daily. Covid 19 and its circumstances changed that.

For a while I took walks in the park and was very introspective. I focused on what I was going to do, still having goals, and tried to be encouraged. I was still very sad and missed my students and daily interaction (outside of ZOOM calls) with my fellow teachers. I questioned was this the life I wanted to continue.

In January of each new year, my pastor asks our congregation to choose a word that they would focus on for the next year. Even during a pandemic, I knew my word was, “hope”. Years ago, after experiencing a RIF (reduction in force) and having to get a new teaching position, I told a fellow teacher, “I live to teach”. Before writing this book, I told the Lord, “I live to encourage”.

My purpose (career-wise) is to teach, my calling (spiritual) is to encourage.

I am sharing 20 days of encouragement. Quick, to the point, prayerful thoughts connecting my experience (from 25 years of teaching) to the word of God. Whether you are at the beginning, middle, or nearer to the end of your career, I desire to encourage you.

As you read through my encouragements, remember, “Never give up, and great things can happen!”
Sheila Smith
Order here: https://amzn.to/2U5zT0b
Sheila's website: https://sheila-smith.com

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