So, a lot has happened out there in the last couple of weeks. A lot of it still crappy (have you heard about the health risking dust cloud from the Sahara on it’s way? Yes, more tests of our human resolve!) But, even with all the negative, today I’m focusing on some positives.

“Like what,” I’m sure you are asking? Well, for one thing, the national conversation toward change is happening and it’s positive. There is still debate, and there will be for a while, on what exactly should happen, how to process all of this, and what it all means to everyone. But, it is happening and I’m grateful for that.

This past week was the last week of school. “SCHOOLS OUT FOR SUMMER!” That means I no longer have a part time job as a 4th grade teacher, rather, I get to leave that behind, at least for two and a half months. Don’t get me wrong, we appreciate our teacher, the school, the district and everything they tried to do in these unprecedented times, but, being a part time teacher with the full time day job as well as the part-time business made for some challenging and long days.

This past week was also my 3rd anniversary, spent quietly at home with the wife and the 9 year old. Don’t struggle with that math, it’s 2020! I’m so grateful for the people around me. Having a strong support group is so important.

I’m proud and thankful me son is following his passion. I hate that he is moving across the country, but I believe in the cause, and though he will be so far away I love him and wish the best. Besides, this assignment is temporary and he’ll be back soon enough.

The past couple of weeks have been really busy at work, and I am thankful I can say that while a lot of people are struggling.

I’m thankful that I have received some responses to an ongoing letter campaign I have demanding change in the way our government conducts policing. That struggle continues…

I also got to spend a much needed long weekend at the beach, catch up on some reading and re-connect with from whence we came.

Keep up the good fight. Stay safe. Thank a nurse. Wash your hands. Play more games. Greet your neighbor. Hug your kids.