When I arrived at school on Monday morning I noticed the beautiful new yellow flowers in the planter on the school steps. I still don’t know who put them there. But that was just the beginning. I opened my office door to a room filled with balloons and paper lanterns. Then a huge sign that said “Happy BROBST-Day” arrived with well wishes from staff and students all over it! Cards showed up in my mailbox, people delivered flowers and gifts, and entire classes of smiling children sang for me. Somehow word had gotten out to staff and students alike to wear black and gold, so the whole school was united in its message. Hanging from the ceiling were two huge gold balloons in the shape of 60. You guessed it – I celebrated my sixtieth birthday surrounded by love and encouragement. My day couldn’t have been more special!
I want to thank you all so much for being such an amazing community. My husband and I can’t believe that we are already in our fourth year at ICSV. The time has gone by quickly. ICSV has proven to be a very special place where we stand united, seek to glorify God and serve others, and desire to grow in grace as we grow closer to each other and to the Lord.
What could have been a sad day for me being so far away from my family and friends in the States turned into one of the most memorable days of my life. I can’t even explain how overwhelmed I became as people stopped by to wish me well. Thank you, all, from the bottom of my heart. Yes, I’m getting older. On some days I really feel it (my left knee yells at me every time I climb stairs). But my prayer continues to be that of the psalmist, King David, “So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim Your might to another generation, Your power to all those to come.” (Psalm 71:18) As long as I am able, I desire to proclaim the Good News of salvation until Jesus returns or God calls me home to be with Him.
After everything that happened on Monday, maybe turning 60 isn’t that bad after all. Thanks for everything.
Because of His Faithfulness,
Sharon Brobst, Ed.D.
Director