I just turned in the grades for the four English classes I have taught this spring at the College of Alameda. It’s a great feeling. I’ve done my best and learned a lot. Now, I’m retired, turning a page. Here’s a recent journal entry dated May 21 that speaks to where I am spiritually and emotionally. It’s a cross between a poem and a prayer:
Here before the flowing green river, I hear birdsong and feel
the breeze swing my hair. I vow to take all I have learned
from three decades teaching writing and self-expression
to help people, myself included, heal from unconscious beliefs
wrongfully running our lives. I vow to help us hear
these monsters–hurt little ones really–so we can change their messages,
for transformation is possible. Each of us is a god and deserves
to live as such–a master of his or her own destiny in this land of generosity.
Let me believe unswervingly in the human heart. Let me cherish
the liquid gold at the center of each being. And let us live
up to and beyond our potential in the name of the grass, the birds,
the air, the water, the sun, the soil, and the integrity of each and every soul on earth.
Amen.
Congratulations at reaching this point in your life with such a song of excited celebration and renewed dedication. The sense of relief and anticipation for what’s ahead are palpable here.
Your students and teaching team will have helped I’m sure to thank and honor you and to send you forward with their encouragement.
The next chapter will be less prescribed but you’ll also be able to enjoy new freedom and experiences of both giving and receiving.
Best wishes and good luck!
Congratulations at reaching this point in your life with such a song of excited celebration and renewed dedication. The sense of relief and anticipation for what’s ahead are palpable here.
Your students and teaching team will have helped I’m sure to thank and honor you and to send you forward with their encouragement.
The next chapter will be less prescribed but you’ll also be able to enjoy new freedom and experiences of both giving and receiving.
Best wishes and good luck!
You are part of my new Team Wendy. I can’t go wrong!
You are part of my new Team Wendy. I can’t go wrong!
Ms. Williams,
I’m super thankful that I got to be in your class this past semester. I learned a lot from you. You are definitely an inspiration. Congrats on completing this journey and beginning a new one!
Thanks for commenting Kai. And thanks for being part of my journey. I am so glad that you were in my class. And I’m happy that you received some inspiration. Are you still writing?
Ms. Williams,
I’m super thankful that I got to be in your class this past semester. I learned a lot from you. You are definitely an inspiration. Congrats on completing this journey and beginning a new one!
Thanks for commenting Kai. And thanks for being part of my journey. I am so glad that you were in my class. And I’m happy that you received some inspiration. Are you still writing?