I spent the next month or so focusing on work. Easy because it was necessary. None of us had been in a school building in 18 months and we were severely out of practice. There was a lot to be done. So many academic, behavioral, and social gaps to fill. Routines, procedures, expectations, relationship-building. For children and adults. Outside of work, I worked on my … Continue reading Seasons, Part II: All Falls Down
“You are everything.” That’s what I’ve told myself a million times. You might not be everything to every single person on Earth, but there are a lot of people on this planet. You are everything that someone is looking for. They’re going to be happy with you. They’re not going to constantly criticize you or try to change who you are at your core. How you … Continue reading Choose. (Part III)
I recently went through a bad breakup. I realize now what made it even more difficult is that it was protracted, for several reasons. And I realize that my self-esteem was adversely affected, and my spirit was nearly crushed – not as much by the dissolution of the relationship, as by the perceived coldness. Some of the things said and done during that long stretch … Continue reading Choose. (Part II)
At the top of the month, I visited my friend Tiffany and her family in Houston. She and I were catching up, and one of the things she said during our conversation is ‘Life is simple; people make it hard.’ I was taken back to a few years ago when my Uncle, Ricky, said the same thing. I thought about it. And they’re right. Yes, … Continue reading Choose. (Part I)
I was disillusioned. And I was “over” how things were going. The trajectory was inconsistent. The path was rocky for years. There were things I expected from our partnership (or didn’t expect but now realize that I should have). There were things I wanted, needed, deserved. But I still didn’t get. And I know he pretty much felt the same. Somewhere in between entering our 30s, parenthood, … Continue reading Love.
Some say grief is the final act of love. I’ve heard others characterize it as “love with nowhere to go.” I’ve understood – and experienced – grief in both ways. I overstand now that grief is proof of life. Proof that love once lived and remains after a transition has taken place. You might not be able to actualize the love in the same way, … Continue reading Feel.
It’s Women’s History Month. And all I can think about are all the women who’ve been carrying me on their backs lately. And for a long time. Formerly and presently. Subtly. Without trying. Without prompting or pressure. Organically. Just lifting me up with their presence. Texts that make me smile. Musings that make ponder. Moves that inspire and motivate me. Examples of grace, strength, resilience, … Continue reading Friends.
I am a servant. I serve my students the best way I know how every day. I bring energy, love and knowledge. I offer these things freely, without condition or expectation of much in return. Sometimes, it’s a challenging role because all of my students aren’t open to these things, all the time. Being rebuffed can hurt and is an uncomfortable feeling, but with my … Continue reading Golden Rule Reciprocity
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