For such a time as this . . .

“For such a time as this . . .” – famous words from Mordecai to Esther in the Bible. I’ve recalled those words when I’ve been in unique situations, whether jobs or encounters with friends, wondering if God placed me in those circumstances for a particular reason and impact.

A couple of weeks ago I found a new appreciation for those words. I was attending a conference for work and found myself bemoaning particular aspects during the first couple of days: “These bags are heavy!”, “The wait for the shuttle is so long!”, “My hotel room is so small!”, “The food is expensive!” (Lots of exclamation points to indicate my mental state)

Then I had a conversation with a colleague on the shuttle ride from the conference center to my hotel one evening. She asked if I enjoyed my job. I replied, “I LOVE my job! I’ve had a chance to experience so many things that otherwise would not have been possible. I’ve traveled around the country and around my state. I’m on an editorial board with “rock stars” in my field working on new standards and guidelines. I’m doing work that is important and impacts the future of our profession.”

Later that evening I thought about my earlier grumblings. Did I truly believe what I proclaimed to my colleague? Suddenly, I had a different attitude about my recent complaints. Those bags were heavy because of the free books from the exhibit hall. The wait for the free shuttle meant I didn’t have to hail a cab and pay for a ride. The small hotel room didn’t matter since I was rarely in my room due to meetings, and it’s one of the cleanest hotels I’ve stayed in recently. The food is amazing, and I have the funds to pay for the meals.

Maybe “for such a time as this” is not about a handful of unique situations throughout my life. Maybe it’s about every day situations. For such a time as this I can experience joy in my surroundings and in my conversations. For such a time as this I can be a positive participant in the work before me. If every day and every moment is “for such a time as this,” then I will certainly be ready for those unique opportunities that will come when I can be used by God in a special way.

Mrs. Mansfield Goes to Frankfort!

KY State Capital Annex
February 22, 2011

Experiencing my first bill review at the Kentucky House of Representatives. I'm listening to discussion of bills up for consideration that relate to education. One of the bills concerns textbooks, so I'm here in case the legislators have questions about that particular bill. I'm sitting with Robin Chandler, a KDE Policy Advisor, Kevin Brown, KDE Legal Counsel and Associate Commissioner, and Rick, supportive husband extraordinaire (who is spending his time at the meeting reading his Kindle).

Listening to students share their bullying experiences in Kentucky schools -- all related to sexual orientation. A bill amendment is proposed to include consequences for bullying on school grounds even when school is not in session and at school-sponsored events.
This is only the second bill, and it has had lots of discussion. May not get to the textbook bill today.

Interesting to see legislators explain their votes before casting them. Also interesting to know that some might change their vote during full session.

I think the legislative process is the way to get your voice heard. The legislators have a lot of power, and I like the fact that even though some of the bills on the agenda won't be covered today (including my bill), the legislators have discussed at length and debated and played "devil's advocate" on the issue under consideration.

I'm glad to see current and former educators serving on the House Education Committee. They are able to provide valuable insight to the conversations.

Ten minutes left! Will the textbook bill make it to discussion before the 2:00 end time? Oh, the pressure!

We're on!

Well! The bill passed the committee even though I recommended that it not! I'm SO disappointed! And I think my nervousness showed. My colleagues and Rick said I did just fine, though.

One more new adventure afforded me by the Kentucky Department of Education!