"Overwhelming" pretty well sums up my experiences over the last two weeks of employment. By the time I delivered my "honored teacher" address at commencement followed by 4 hours of socializing with my colleagues, I was about as exhausted as I've ever been. I think I only recovered as a result of sleeping 24 hours on and off.
Perhaps the most common question posed to me has had to do with the curiosity of "has it hit me yet" that I am no longer gainfully employed. In reality, the answer may not emerge until the end of August when I have customarily returned to work after having summers off. In fact, I haven't worked in the summer for the past 13 years, and this summer will be no different...that is, until the last week of August. So...maybe I'll have more to say on the subject at a later time.
As I unwind from all of the celebrating, I take pause to remember why I changed careers to begin with. My students seemed to enjoy the opportunities to share their feelings about our classroom relationships. I don't know why I have been so fortunate, or what I have done to deserve such praise. The same is true about the cards, notes, comments, and hugs I've received from my colleagues.
This all leaves me with one final thought. The only difference between retirement parties and funerals is that you get to hear the speeches. At least now I know whom to call to deliver my eulogy ;-)
