Update: I'm now 16+ months into underemployment. So, I've dug deep into my reservoir of courage to be a substitute teacher in the public schools. It's hard work, let me tell you. The experiences have taught me so much, and I am observing first hand what it's like to be a public school teachers.

Let's not forget our public school teachers. Let's prop them up with encouragement and prayers every chance we get. Let's volunteer even an hour a week to help them succeed in their roles.

My wife, Patty, and daughter, Liz are serving as public school teachers in the Jessamine County Public School systems. Having substituted in the schools where they serve, it has been an eye opening experience as I've learned about the blessings and challenges of serving in public education. Here are five insights:

Our kids our precious...the hallways of our schools are filled with precious littles and teens. They are smart, talented, and eager to learn. I am so excited with what I see roaming through the hallways of our public schools.

Teachers are givers...these heroes give and give, and give and give, and give and give, and give and give. You get my point. These men and women are constantly giving of their time and energy to the next generation.

Teachers are tired...they work long hours, often seven days a week, for the sake of our children. Teachers need those many weeks off in the summer to recuperated. And most don't take off all the time the deserve because they're pouring out to get ready for the next school year.

Teachers are heroes...They possess huge amounts of courage and perseverance every day to tackle the challenges of the public school educational environment. 

Teachers give our world hope...they're are models to me (and our kids) of hard work. They serve on the front lines of the American workforce. They're changing lives, one student at a time.