Hurricanes and Problems at Home

I've begun my teaching experience at a middle school in Lawrence County. Today was like any other day - the kids came in, sat down, appeared to be ready to begin the day as usual...but evidently, today wasn't a usual day. One student came to the desk and asked to go to the office. I asked the student if they were sick and wanted to lay their head down on their desk. The student responded, "No, there are problems at home and my Dad is picking me up."

I wake up every morning to a girl who loves me. I get out of my king-sized bed, and walk through my air conditioned house to my kitchen where food awaits me. I can open my fridge that is full of food and drink. I have enough money to pay for cable, internet, a new car, clothes, movies, food, diet coke, ice cream, college, and my two pets. At any moment, I could pick up the phone and call at least 16 people (that I can think of right now) that would drop everything just to make sure I was OK. I have at least 5 places at my house that I can get fresh, clean water to drink, or bathe in. I live in America where I don't worry about oppression, water, health care, safety, food, or freedom. I grew up knowing that Jesus loves me and wants a relationship with me. Yet, I gripe about everything.

There are people just south of me who are suffering and yet, here I sit in front of my TWO computer monitors watching the NFL, and drinking ice cold water. I am the chief of sinners. I am the lowest of the low. I am the dirtiest of the filthy.

This student came into my class today with something on her heart that I may never have to endure. Her problem won't just go away, it is still there as I type these words and it will still be there tonight, and will probably be there tomorrow. There are hurricanes that do tremendous damage, but there are problems at home that do just as much...perhaps not physically, but maybe emotionally. What can I do? I am a teacher. There are laws against putting my arm around this student. There are regulations that say I can't stop class to make sure this student is OK. There are 30 other students who need me too...what can I do, who am I supposed to take this student to for help?


Jesus.
Help me.
I am weak.
I need you.