Evidence of Him: Do Not Wage War

As an advocate for students with special needs, I often find myself in the uncomfortable position of confronting a colleague on behalf of a child or their family to ensure that the child's unique needs are being met within the classroom. When all goes well, the teacher is receptive to collaboration, and as a result of our collective efforts, we are able to develop a plan that benefits the student, their classmates, and the teacher. Unfortunately, I find that on occasion a teacher may feel threatened or become defensive when presented with an opportunity to dialogue about what strategies are effective for the student and what could be improved upon. When this occurs, communication breaks down and, ultimately, everyone suffers; crucial learning and meaningful relationships cease.

By now you are probably assuming that I encountered this precise situation. That this story is about my conversation with a reluctant teacher who was focused only on what fit her agenda and philosophy. You are correct. What you probably didn't guess is that I was that teacher.

In a moment of frustration and anger, I was ready to grab my sword of righteousness and my shield of special education law in order to storm the castle under the banner of "Student Rights". In that moment, I wasn't thinking of the "why" or "how" the offending situation occurred, nor was I interested in investigating it further. I was wholly consumed with defending the rights of the weak; even if it meant going strongly on the offensive.

As I mounted by "high horse", I decided I should rally the troops around my cause. After all, I was right and I felt justified in sharing that fact with those I new were "on my side". As I gathered my thoughts, an ally walked into my room. I took the opportunity to dramatically share the injustice that had occurred and awaited her outrage. I was left disappointed. Though she patiently listened, and even agreed with me (in part), she was not in support of my hostile approach to conflict resolution. Instead, she reminded me that although the situation needed to be addressed, it need to be done in a calmly, professionally, and with grace.

That was all I needed. I was able to clearly hear the Spirit whisper that I am called to be a Peacemaker, not a warrior, as Paul wrote in 2nd Corinthians 10:3 "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does". Once again, He sent a Christian friend and colleague to speak to my heart when I needed it most. Once I began to set my saw agenda aside, I was able to see His plan more clearly. In reviewing the situation through a biblical perspective, I was able to move forward as an advocate for the student, while maintaining a working relationship with the teacher.