A Good Friend

One of my good teacher friends was so upset over something yesterday that she couldn't even talk about it. That's the way it is sometimes at our school. I wonder if it will be the same for me in the states in two or three years. If I am able to get a job in my area, and it ends up being half as stressful as here, I am getting out of the classroom and going to work at a factory. I'm tired of always thinking. Even during vacations, I think about what to do in the classroom. Yikes, it just never stops.

Why do we do it? For the money, of course. (all teachers will get the sarcasm) No, wait, it's not just about the salary. We do it to see the light in kids' eyes every once in awhile when they "get" a new math concept. Or when they get their hands on some Oobleck or dry ice and have a blast with experiments. Or when their writing turns out to be exemplary. Or when a formerly quiet as a mouse student has a breakthrough and starts talking loudly enough to need to be shushed. Or when ESL students soar. Or when confidence blooms. Or when they actually get my witticisms. (Third graders probably won't get my jokes)

So to my friend, I say, "I'm here when and if you are ready to talk about it."

Farewell

The founder of the biking website posted this message and photo of Dave. It's a fitting farewell for a good friend.

It Can't Be True

No names just yet, but one of my favorite people suffered heart failure (at age 41) and died this morning while training in the ocean for a triathlon. We were just talking a few weeks ago about firming up plans to finally ride together before too much more time passed. Now I can ride with him in spirit only. Godspeed, my friend. My next bike ride is dedicated to you.

Goodbye, Ian

Well, hell, cancer took another friend and colleague. No words of wisdom here...just wanted to say goodbye. I'll miss you, my friend.