thinking between the lines

About Lisa

The “Just Me” Intro
The one subject I struggled with in grade school was handwriting. Why? Because the teachers insisted that I write on the lines, and I don’t do that very well. I’ve always been drawn to the space between the lines. Things look a little clearer when I can see not only both sides but also the vast land of possibility bridging two unwavering lines.

Granted, the land between lines of battle can be a minefield, and no one expects to see someone wandering there. No, we’re expected to pick a side and line up. Don’t bother with the space between, just shoot away at the other line. But again, I don’t do that very well. The space is too intriguing, and I guess that’s what I write about, the ideas I find between the lines of expectation.

I don’t have to look far for those ideas because I, like everyone, am equipped with my own company of actors, a stage full of players including a teacher (that’s me) and her 150 or so college students, a pastor/husband and his 350ish-member congregation, a successful daughter who is making her way in the world of finance, a colorful extended family whose stories would fit well in the middle of a Faulkner short story, and a couple of miscreant beagles.

These players and their stories help me trudge through intersecting issues like faith, culture, family, education, and politics. What am I looking for? An existence where love for God and people is real. A place where I can hear the voice of God saying, “This is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

The “Formal Me” Intro
Lisa earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of New England and also holds a Bachelor of Science in English and a Master of Science in Adult Education from Texas A&M University-Texarkana where she now serves as the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) Program Director. Under Lisa’s leadership, the BAAS program has been recognized locally and nationally as one of the most innovative programs for adult learners in higher education. Going forward, Lisa desires to continue building an academic program that offers transformational opportunities to adults returning to college. Her hope in doing so is that graduates of the program will carry positive change into their own communities and families, thus making the BAAS more than just a piece of paper.

8 Responses »

  1. I found your blog through wordpress.com, and even though I’ve only read a few posts, I wanted to thank you for writing. It’s encouraging to read your perspective on things. What you say about working through “intersecting issues like faith, culture, family, education, and politics” peaked my interest, because that is what I find myself doing and writing about a lot. I look forward to reading more of your work!

  2. It’s a rare thing when I read an about page and feel like I have a lot in common with a person. My mom was a teacher & mid school principal. I wanted to become a teacher, but He had other plans :-). My son just graduated and is looking for a teaching job. My father was a pastor of a congregation about the same size as your husband’s for 45 years. My Mom and son both live in Texas…I was born there, and lived there periodically on Home Assignments. And yet none of that has anything to do with my daily life. God has such a sense of humor! Anyway, I’m glad I stumbled across your blog. Look forward to reading more of your thoughts.

  3. I’m working on my Doctorate in Philosophy and think you’d find my postings inspiring, comforting, and peaceful. Nice post you have.

  4. I saw this after I woke this morning, on my first day of vacation from teaching over 45 years. I don’t believe I have ever seen a better description of teachers. I am so touched and impressed. Thank you for sharing your words with Americans, locally here in metro Detroit, and across the nation.. This is an outstanding piece of writing and so true. Not only did I dedicate my life, but two of my three children also are teachers. When asked why, their response was “Mom, I see all you give, I know it is not for money, but for love of children and, because of our teachers, we want to dedicate our lives also.”

  5. From one educator to another, thank you for your thoughtful post. It couldn’t have been said any better.

  6. I have not been blessed with the eloquence of words such as those you have used to explain being a teacher and living a life dedicated to a Savior. My daughter, a teacher, found your post and sent it to me. Thanks.

  7. I too am a person of faith and a high school English/literature teacher. I am happy to have found this blog. God bless.

    S. Thomas Summers
    Author of Private Hercules McGraw: Poems of the American Civil War

  8. Hi, Lisa. I’m glad to have come across your blog. Good stuff! I am a teacher and follower of Jesus so we have that in common, hehe 🙂 I’ll definitely continue to keep up with your blog. Have a blessed day, from Japan to the U.S.!

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