Check List

Wow, this is the first time that I have deleted a post. I had a rough patch tonight. I wanted to throw myself a pity party and invite you all to come.

Do you ever get the feeling that there is no way you could feel more your age? Or an adult? Out of the blue comes character building opportunities and BAM!! When you get back to your feet and look around to see what happened a strange feeling washes over you. You ask yourself - Why do I felt more like an adult? Hmmm.

Reaching for my life goals has taken me WAY outside of my comfort zone, my circle of support, my house, and away from most things that hold me in place. This is one guy that does not want another character building experience!! I am brought back to this past Saturday morning when I was working at school. One boy came in and sat down, head on the table I could tell that he was going to cry. I walked oer to him and told him we could leave the room. I went out in the hall with him, so the other wouldn't see him cry. I waited for my moment. Before that came the other teacher came out and wanted him to come back in the room, and said that he didn't want to hold up the group much more. This was one of our counselors. I told him I would take care of it and to give us a couple minutes. I sat on the floor and started to talk to the boy. I asked what was on his mind, and almost had to have him stop so I would not cry in front of him. This eleven year old child had a fight with his mother that he didn't understand. He spoke of fights between his parents, and how this impacted him. How his older brother was out of jail and at the house a lot. He held his head in his hands and just said that he felt so stressed. This kid is in the sixth grade. What kind of world are we living in? He was able to finish with the fact that he has food on the table and a bed to sleep in, and that is more than other people. I told him that we should go check out the new rooms that are not open yet. He asked if that was ok, and I said I knew how we could get in. As we walked I could tell that he was getting his head together. I asked him about his classes, and why I had not seen him in art yet. He said next term, and he looked at me and told me that he liked me. AH, please. I am going to need a moment. Can someone hand me a tissue??

I am thinking of starting an after school art club next term. Man, it is getting harder not to grab a hold of these kids and tell them that everything is going to be fine. This world is changing so fast, and not for the better these days. I have hand a lot of students come up and need me to provide art supplies.

After a long day, and telling this story, I would just like to say that I am blessed. I have my family, friends, faith, job, house, car, food, and looks. What more could you ask for..........

What does this season mean to you? What are the best memories you can remember about Christmas time? I love the late candle lit services, and gifts from Santa (small gifts are sometimes the best).

If we do not talk again, have a great week and embrace the season.