Okay, I am going to put myself out there and talk about something that bothers me. Often, when things bother me like this, I eat, but this time I will talk about it. It is not that complicated, really. I love the church that I attend, however a big focus of the church is reaching out to the community, helping at a homeless center, picking up trash in the inner city,etc. The service is just for an hour once a week. We have an option to attend a bible study during the week, and then, on most weekends, there are opportunities to serve. I love this concept and I would love to serve on the weekends and I feel guilty that I don't.

Now, come my excuses...I teach (preschool children who are disabled) at a time when demands on teachers and assessments of students and teachers are at an all time high in our country. Honest, it was never like this before and I have taught 30+ years. Many young teachers are burning our and leaving because of the stress. The point is that I spend about 10 hours at my job everyday with very little break time. Also,I am involved with after school day care at the school one evening a week for a few hours. I try to get caught up on the paperwork on the weekends. ( I don't know any teachers who do not stay late or do not take work home.) Thus, I am so tired to go out and serve on the weekends. I always think I would like to, but when the day arrives, I am exhausted. Also, I have a mom who is now in her 80's and lives nearby. I try to visit her at least once a week as well, usually on Saturday.

Okay, so I know that everyone has lots going on in their lives, and they still manage to find time for others and to help others. I am hoping that many of you will tell me your thoughts and how do you do it. What do you do? Is my thinking/feeling wrong? Am I being selfish? Should I push through the tiredness and go serve? Please feel free to be honest. What do you all do? How do you manage to fit it all in?