More Reverb10. I'm kind-of going to miss the prompts; they've at least given me some good food for thought.
Defining Moment Describe a defining moment or series of events that has affected your life this year.
Undoubtedly this would be returning to the classroom to teach and administrate this Fall. The last time I was an actual classroom teacher and had to think about all that entails was when I was in grad school (that wasn't recent, for those keeping score). The 9 weeks of directing a unit for the 2nd year medical students was alternately frustrating, exhilarating, soul-wrenching, and rewarding. I know that it could have been done differently and in a way that involved less investment of my whole person for that time- but we all know that wouldn't be me. I'm now faced with determining if I am interested in and able to continue with this level of commitment and effort. Can I really do this on an annual basis and not get broken down by it? The jury is still out on that one. Ultimately it all comes back around to this beautiful statement made by Brene Brown, "The thing is - when you don't care at all what people think, you lose your capacity for connection. When you care too much, you lose your willingness to be vulnerable." Walking that line becomes the challenge, and it's no less true in the classroom (if you're passionate about teaching) than it is anywhere else in life.
Soul Food What did you eat this year that you will never forget? What went into your mouth & touched your soul?
I wish I had a copy of the menu from the night I ate at L'Arome in Paris, and I fault only myself for not going directly back to my room at the Lancaster and writing down the specific indulgences. I simply remember this as being one of the most beautifully orchestrated, prepared, and served meals that I've had in my life. I've come to love Paris more than I ever expected, and meals like that one are an important part of the reason why.
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