A Lesson in Humility

Elizabeth Estrada rethinks her decision to retire and considers the kind of work she'd like to do in this phase of her life.

I have been a schoolteacher for over 30 years, and I still enjoy being around preschoolers. At this point you either are fascinated, horrified, or questioning my statement — especially if you are a teacher yourself.

This past summer, the Holy Spirit placed retirement on my heart. Friends I met up with asked the big question: "So, have you thought about retiring?" I was shocked. I couldn’t believe it, so the answer was a no! I hadn’t thought about it. As far as I was concerned, I had many years yet to go. But after my allergist asked the question, I knew it was a God thing.

I started the process and yes, this month retirement officially happens — so I thought. I knew I wasn’t ready to stop working. I want to continue. I can’t see myself retiring quite yet. I have energy and want to be productive. Truthfully, I also need to put my son through college.

The Search

In my few spare minutes here and there, I began logging onto the computer looking for jobsites like Indeed and finding out options to use my degrees and skill set. I was amazed at all the options but also disheartened at how much more people in other careers and jobs get paid than teachers.

My resumes and applications were sent but nothing came of it; they either were “saving my resume” or I wasn’t a good fit. So I prayed, pondered, and decided to investigate private schools and early childhood centers

Why not? I enjoy the kiddos, and won’t have to deal with the testing pressure and push-down effect on the littles. I was sure I would find the dream situation I always wanted.

Well, here I am four months later and I haven’t found it yet. It has been very humbling. I have had five or six interviews, and sometimes even made it to a second interview, only to hear the words, “I am going to have to pass.”

The Waiting

The old me would be in a panic trying to find out why and trying to fix the resume, the way I interview, or whatever it took to get the job.

Thankfully, I have been talking to the Lord since I began this journey months ago. I told Him that my next season was in His hands and that I wanted Him to lead me where He needs me to be.

Now that doesn’t mean I am not disappointed or that I am not questioning my experience, but I do remind myself every time I don’t get the job that the Lord is in control and He knows best.

It is also a great lesson on humility. I am always praying that I need to be humbler, so this is a great way to practice.

Hopefully by the fall, He has led me to the place He needs me to be on this next chapter in my life.

Have you ever been in a situation like this?

Share your experiences in the comments.

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Copyright 2026 Elizabeth Estrada
Images: Canva