The difference a year makes

This time last year I would have been feeling stress and anxiety as I started a new school term. I would have been happy to see my students again, but dreading another term with my teaching partner, who was hard to work with. The workload and extra responsibilities placed on me by the school administrators would have been weighing on my mind. In contrast, today I wrote for two hours. Then after breakfast I volunteered at the Botanical Gardens, helping edit their quarterly newsletter. Next I went into the city for the first session of a new class, which meant discussing books, workshopping and more writing. Finally, I went to work for about three hours where I marked quizzes, texted students who have appointments tomorrow and checked out books for people who came into the library. There was no anxiety; I didn't feel stressed; I exercised my creativity; and I put my time and energy into pursuits that feed my soul and will hopefully soon be out in the world for others to enjoy too. As interminable as last year felt, I've come out the other side stronger, and with a clearer sense of purpose and gratitude.