Sunshine Emmaline: Stepping Outside the Zone.

I have always had a desire inside me to serve others and to try and make a difference. I would picture myself speaking in front of a large group, words flowing eloquently out of my mouth, and changing millions of lives. But then… I got called to be a Gospel Doctrine teacher. My heart began beating, palms sweating as I thought, “What?!”. When I thought of actually REALLY speaking in front of my peers for longer than 5 minutes—not to mention every other week—I became extremely overwhelmed. However, I willingly accepted my call to serve, and remembered I needed to be courageous… I have a comfort zone assignment to do of course.

I was terrified. I knew I did not have to teach for a few weeks because of stake conference and the temple dedication, but it almost made it worse being so far away. The anxiety built up inside of me, as I read the course and the assigned chapters. I found myself on my knees several times just trying to make the butterflies go away, and praying to not sound like an idiot. That’s it. I can do this, I think to myself. The days flash by and before I know it, it’s Sunday. My Sunday. I feel as prepared as I am going to be, but for some reason I still feel like I am going to puke. The hour before my class drags on, and I am just hoping that it goes over time so that I do not have to give my lesson. But no, it ends perfectly on cue, leaving me the entire next hour to give my lesson. I muster up my courage and my belongings, and head straight to my classroom. As I set things up, people begin filing in. Then more people. And oh wait… more. Until finally, it is time to begin. I shut the door, and before I can begin people already make me feel at ease. They are excited for me, and I see some familiar faces that I love. I boldly write my name on the board, and I begin. This is easier than I thought! As I start speaking, the words flow through me. What was I thinking?! I actually kind of like this! The members of the class are chiming in. I notice that I do not even have to say as much as I thought. Their words and influence on me is making me think and speak more—I think they are teaching me more than I am teaching them! I look at the clock and I cannot believe my eyes… it is time! My hour is up! I close, and as I snap back to reality I do not believe that I have been lost in a different world, rid of all my fears and worries. I did it. It’s over. And I feel good about it.

I have conquered my fear, while attaining part of my dream. And you know what, it was not bad at all! It is contagious really! It makes me want to do more good, and knowing that I can stand up in front of a class and teach a lesson for an hour through the help of our God makes me feel like I can do anything. I can help and bless others lives! I can go be a public speaker if I want! I learned so much from being a teacher and being courageous. Thank you Dr. Broomhead!