Dear all,
I believe when last I wrote, I was preparing to begin attending UGA for graduate study of linguistics. However, after much prayer and much counsel, I have decided that now is not the right time for me to go to grad school. Instead, I’ll spend the next two years (or so) working, paying off loans, saving up money, and investing my time at home in Franklin. Right now I’m working three jobs: (1) as a gymnastics coach at Harpeth School of Gymnastics, where I’m primarily helping coach the boys’ team; (2) as a 5th/6th grade teaching assistant at FCS, where I help teach humanities and Latin; and (3) online, for a company that does online competitive intelligence. All in all, I’m working about 44 hours a week, in addition to working on music for my band (Danny McClelland and the Sons of Erin), and, of course, busking with Becca (which proves rather lucrative). I’ve also moved back in with my family in their new house in Franklin, which helps me save quite a bit of money, and for which I am very grateful.
My current plan is to attend graduate school two years from now (Fall 2014) at Indiana University, where I’ll get my M.A. in Chinese. This course of study is a change from my previous plan to study linguistics, as I think I’ll enjoy a career as a [Chinese] translator/interpreter more than as a linguist/academic. I was actually offered at least one full year of funding at IU for this program, but I’ll have to reapply for scholarships in two years, so I’m praying that God will grant me this scholarship money again. The IU program is a two-year program, the second year of which is spent in China (Nanjing, I think). I’m still praying that this plan is in accordance with the Lord’s will, but until that decision becomes clear, I’m enjoying the blessings God has given me in the present.
So I add the above to the list of unexpected changes the Churchill family has undergone in the last year. But God is good and his love steadfast. I would appreciate your prayers during this time also, as I continue seeking the Lord’s will as well as some much-sought respite.
In Christ,
James
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
You have our prayers for all of your activities. Grandpa Tom
I am so glad to hear of your plans! I am sure your parents are happy to have u home for a time!
I’m glad you get to stay in Nashville for awhile. I’ll be praying!
Sounds like a good plan to me––study abroad again also sounds lovely. Thanks for the update!
Praying the Lord’s blessing on your plans and it seems like you are comfortable with it so that is helpful. Sounds like a quilt of ideas– lots of different pieces but it all fits together nicely.
Its fun seeing you at school as a teacher. I enjoyed when we were having pizza the other night at Nashville Pizza Company and a couple of 6th grade girls came up to you and said, “Hi, Mr. Churchill!”
It sounds like a very good plan!
I too am glad that this plan seems to be working out well for you Mr. Churchill.