I'm sorry, folks.  I seem to be in a negative spiral of late.  I do think that people only have so much energy to give.  The majority of mine is going to the school and my students.  It's a tough job, 'parenting' 31 adolescents...  I'm learning that maintaining a patient, up-beat attitude takes lots of energy...  I'm at the point that I need a mental health day.  I don't know how people go their whole career chasing that gold watch and never miss a day of work.  To me, there is so much value in stepping away - fully, with the brain disengaged from that work - for a day every now and then.  Just a day.  One to call your own.  What would you do if you had a day?  Let's say we name it after you... What would be the agenda on _____________  Day???  I'm smiling just picturing the inventive and awesome ideas that would populate that line.  Go ahead!!! Sit back for a moment and think about that day. What would you do? Golf? Swim? Hike? Read? Watch TV? Sleep? Lay out in the sun? Go bowling? Go see a sick relative? Bring meals to a homeless shelter? Go out and smile at every person you meet?  Meditate? Visit friends and family at the cemetery?  The point is that there are an infinite number of ways to spend a REAL DAY OFF.  So, what would you do?  Share your thoughts in the comments...



I've got to find a way to get my thoughts on paper here...

Two days ago, I was riding an incredible high - things going good at work, a nice 3 day weekend behind me, a good class Monday night, etc.  I was optimistic and upbeat.

Tonight, not so much.  I've been fighting headaches these past two days.  I'm not eating as well as I was.  I have zero energy.  I can't get out of bed in the morning.  My attention span is shot. I've lost interest in  ______... My hands have been poised above the keys for the past few moments while I came to grips with what I have to type.  I may, indeed, be bi-polar.  I think it's time to do some serious research on this.  I will do that tomorrow night.  (Unless, of course, this depression still has me within its clutches.)

I am going to find an affirmation for us before I close.  Perhaps ending that way will help send me off to sleep swiftly and deeply...


"Mr. P:

Oh man, what a year.  You made AP Stats fun with your joyful personality, witty jokes, and infectious smile. Most teachers worry about getting the material taught and learned. You did that, but you cared about your students as well. Every time I had a bad day, a smile and a pat on the back always made my day. You inspire me to have fun and make the best out of everything. I thank you for being such an amazing teacher AND person. There needs to be more people in the world like you! I'm going to miss you a ton, and I hope your future brings great things."

Thank you, David.  Thank you.

Good night, everyone.

Peace.

Carpe Diem.