Stress Over a New School Year - Part 2

Count Down as School Stress Builds Up
 
Isn’t it great that we all get to begin a new school year with fresh starts, new beginnings and new opportunities? The answer is yes. Last school year is in the past, so let it remain there as we walk into a new semester. 
 
I am the oldest of three siblings, which means there were no “shoes to fill”. If you’re the oldest, be aware that you’ve got a tremendous privilege and responsibility. Should you be the next sibling in line; relax, breathe deeply and keep walking. You are you. You are different, unique and can /should make your own path. Respect your opportunity to start anew and decide, before you enter the hallways, what kind of semester you want. Better yet, what would God want of you this year?
 
As you’re gathering new school supplies - stop, look and listen to what you’re thinking and feeling. Are you excited, concerned, both? If so, choose to use those feelings and emotions as a motivator to trust God more. Pray for wisdom (James 1:5-6) and ask Him to guide your steps, conversations and feelings. Feelings are not always based on facts, rather expectations and unknowns. We can find ourselves getting unnecessarily worked up over things. Remember, each day is a new day. Seek new discoveries and adventures by making new friends and learning something about others, yourself and the world around you.
 
When your stomach’s butterflies seem to be flying wild and out of order bring them into formation by asking yourself – why am I stirred up? Is this something that is in or out of my control? How can I trust God, others and myself in this situation? Decide not to overreact. Choose to face it and redirect your energies by smiling, breathing deeply and considering the best way to handle things/situations/people. You can through Christ (Philippians 4:13).

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Parental Ponder
 
Don’t be overbearing to your child. Don’t relive your high school years through them. Don’t be too suffocating. They have enough pressure without your continual nagging. 
 
Do expect and encourage them to do their best, insist on it. Do spend time and listen to them. Do help them schedule out their demands by bringing balance and order to their thinking and processing. Relax and they’ll relax.  Remember John 1:16, "Out of his fullness we have all received grace upon grace already given."