The Trail Ahead
The ‘22-‘23 school year ended in mild fanfare.
The last few weeks of school was a slow and tedious march towards the finish line marked JUNE 8. When that day finally arrived, my desk was cleared, textbooks were neatly shelved, and report cards were distributed. It was a relief to let out the deep sigh that had been building since our last break. As I reflect on the past 10 months, it feels as though I'm witnessing someone's wide-eyed astonishment and jaw-dropping awe when they successfully perform their first backflip. The feeling of "Did I really just do that?"- did I just spend a year teaching History at my former middle school? More shockingly, did I just manage to consistently wake up before 6:30 a.m.? This year has been filled with numerous unexpected moments like these, and I’m sensing a shift of my perspective on challenging tasks. I'm learning not to assess the feasibility of something solely based on my own limited perception of my capabilities. It’s easier said than done, but I’m recognizing the importance of knowing how our faith in Christ instills in us a profound confidence in His supernatural provision, equipping us with everything we need to fulfill His will through the Holy Spirit within us. It’s nothing earth-shattering, but it’s a much-needed reminder.
As the term concluded I felt content with my decision to leave my position as a History teacher and Librarian at GDQ. When I initially took on these roles I knew they didn't align directly with what I thought my giftings and strengths were, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover that there was more room to utilize them than I had anticipated. Considering I didn't specialize in History Education or Library Science, I believe I managed quite well! A couple of highlights from the Teacher Evaluation I gave my students:
“Mr Doçi just goes with the flow”
In response to a question about suggestions for improvement, a seventh-grader advised me to "use my pawn to watch the horse" in our chess matches, and an eighth-grader recommended that I "lower my expectations." I was also criticized for occasionally going off-topic with too many rabbit trails on current events.
Multiple students commended my French skills, even though I had never spoken French in front of them.
Endi, a seventh-grader, enthusiastically declared, "DEBATES ARE SUPER GOOD."
When asked to rate my willingness to learn from students on a scale of 1 to 5, Aldri and Noah gave me a resounding 10.
By mid-May I started feeling somewhat restless about not having a clear path after June. I contemplated various options- getting a Masters, Discipleship Training School (DTS) in New Zealand, barista-ing at my go-to coffee shop, or returning to the United States to figure things out from there. None of these options truly resonated with me. While it was comforting to know that I had the freedom to choose any of these paths without any being off the table, it wasn't until I was completing my TeachBeyond exit form that I began to reconsider. Within a few hours I sensed the potential for me to continue at GDQ and find a role that would align better with my strengths while fulfilling a need at the school. The idea of working in an administrative position focused on relationship-building hadn't crossed my mind until my office buddy, Peter, mentioned it during one of our mid-morning chats. Following a recent visit from the advisory board and considering GDQ's need for a more active role in recruitment, advancement, and alumni engagement, it seemed like a role I could thrive in. As a GDQ alumnus who was recently recruited due to staff shortages, I already possess a solid understanding of the school's culture and mission. I shared this idea with our director, who gave it the green light. Last week, I received a proper job description and clear next steps to continue my work with TeachBeyond and GDQ. The main components of my new role are:
Communications: Enhancing GDQ's online presence and promoting the school's vital role in supporting missionaries reaching the unreached in Albania.
Recruitment: Building relationships with schools, organizations, and individuals capable of providing qualified staff for GDQ, emphasizing that it's a calling to serve the broader Albanian church, not just a teaching job.
Alumni Relations: Maintaining strong connections between GDQ and former staff, students, and families, creating networking opportunities, student support, encouragement, and furthering GDQ's vision.
These are the three key areas I ‘m hoping to advance for GDQ's recruitment efforts, alumni connections, and broader vision. I have a clearer idea of where my strengths can shine through in this role, and I'm thrilled about the opportunity to serve the school in a capacity where there is a significant need. I will be reaching out to discuss more of how you might be able to support me in the near future and I pray that God will continue to abundantly provide for the season in which He has called me to serve in this role.
As for this summer, I have decided to remain in Europe. Since a significant portion of my new role can be accomplished remotely for the time being, and considering the high cost of flights to the United States, I felt comfortable with the decision to stay on this side of the Atlantic and will likely make a trip Stateside in November. God opened a pretty miraculous door for me to travel to Norway next week to attend a conference at a YWAM base, and all the pieces fit together to get some trail mileage walking the Way of St Olav, a pilgrimage road from Oslo to Trondheim. The YWAM base is a kilometer off the pilgrim path, so I’ll get off the plane in Oslo and walk to the conference! More to come on that.
Please keep the following prayer requests in mind:
Adjusting to a shifting routine from the school year to the summer schedule.
A safe and fruitful trip to Norway.
For GDQ students traveling, resting, and transitioning this summer.
Logistics of support-raising and living situation for a more long-term commitment in Albania.
Moving into my new position at GDQ.
Peace to you all-
Aaron
