Thirteen

Even non-superstitious people shake their heads over 13, hoping a smirk covers their reaction. Buildings skip a floor with no elevator stop and don’t forget those four teen years that start with 13. I did some research and want you to know there is a word for the phobia that causes people to postpone weddings, or trips, or any major decision on the 13, especially a Friday of a month: (deep breath) triskaidekaphobia. Yet, the extra cookie treat in a baker’s dozen is never turned down and Tuesday I took part in 13th happening that resulted because of a change of path in my life.

Fall of 2010, a former principal and I, mostly her, opened a 6th grade as a skip from a Pre-school/after school option to a private middle school for low income families. Details can be ignored. Just know that my part in making this venture succeed was to come early enough for another teacher to take her 5 year old to kindergarten and arrive to team teach with me until noon when I went home. My duties were English and field trips. Year one graduation was 2013. Last Tuesday was the 13 year and 13 8th graders moved on to high school.

Forget the steps and changes and commitments that led to this day, just feel the emotional throbbing in the basement room of a local church. Parents and various age siblings sat in rows on folding chairs. My co-teacher and I represented a founding faculty and were able to connect with a family of four girls we had taught. A much younger brother was graduating with honors and recognition. No Middle School moving on in Houston matched that gathering. Each student came to the mike, gave their name and how they felt about the school. They thanked each teacher specifically and expressed gratitude to their parents, sometimes repeating in Spanish to assure understanding. Each one had a moment when tears and the ability to continue called for a pause in presentation. Teachers came to stand by them and family and classmates called out encouragement. This group of 13 had this opportunity in small part because of me. What else can I say to this group about this lucky number?

 I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy.

Philippians 1: 3 – 4