A Cup of Chai

After an intense summer abroad working with orphans and the homeless, I laid down the blogging. I don’t know if hesitation arose because of confusing, sleepless nights or simply because I was trying my best to successfully complete my last semester of college and become a grown-up. Well, it became most real to me a few months ago when I officially gave my mom her credit card I have had since I was 16 and purchased car insurance in my name. I learned quite recently that time will continue to lapse regardless if you are actively pursuing your dreams. After my college graduation, I loaded my car and treked to the snowy north. Two of my best friends lead a pretty adventurous life and have inspired me to no end. I thought it only practical and necessary to move to northern Michigan in early January to work a temp job with them as I awaited to hear from my current career choice. Our time together always seems to collaborate this heightened sense of community in me. It really is a beautiful thing. As they moved to Australia, I knew that Baltimore was my next endeavor.

It is currently the start of my second summer on the East Coast. If anyone would have told me how hard my first year moving away from everything I new to be comfortable and friendly, I would not have come. If anyone would have told me how time consuming planning rigorous lessons were, I would not be teaching. If anyone would have told me how broken the lives of inner city children are, I would not be involved. I’m glad no one told me.

One year later, I am painfully involved. I am settling my life here in Baltimore City and becoming quite acclimated with it’s simple charm. Although, I could never imagine growing up on the streets of Baltimore, I am honored to educate those that do. A student told me the other day that they heard a “shoot out” in their neighborhood and as I intently listened, I immediately replied, “Does this happen often?” She then said quite casually, “Ms. McManus, this is Baltimore.” I paused for a minute, took a deep breath, then continued my reading lesson.

I do not share to increase the intensity of my chosen profession, but simply to say that, even in America, there are “unsafe” areas. Even in America, children go without hygiene products, central air, and food. Even in America, there is a large disparity in education and the achievement gap is wide. I have seen much in this country that has left me wondering almost hopelessly. But, I am quickly encouraged when one of my students says that she “couldn’t sleep” because she was thinking about the lesson I taught on the Holocaust. As I have been inspired by Timothy and Katie, I hope to transfer that inspiration into young lives. (P.S. Tim would be offended if I didn’t say that he came up with this post’s title. Kuddos Tim!) I hope to leave them with an ignited fire. I hope to encourage them in the fact that even in Baltimore, they can embrace change and be something different. I have posted largely on my chalk board Gandhi’s quote that I hope they remember throughout their lives… “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” As cliche’ as it is, it still carries a beautiful message. A message that even I have often warred with.

I am hopeful. I know that this time is beneficial and provoking. This blog is even an expression of my current stability. I have not posted because I have felt extreme instability within this last year, but as I embrace what I know to be Truth, I find it promising and beautiful. Christ makes all things new and continues to show me the areas in which I can be a light. As I conclude my first year of teaching, I will prepare for my next. Graduate school is on the near horizon. Baltimore is a good place for me. I am learning more than you know.

Katie and Tim, thanks for your inspriation and prayers.