A Long...February?

There's some sort of discontent and restlessness in the air.

For me, I can feel it. A whole lot of it. It's hard to unwind from the day, it's hard to sleep at night, and it's even harder to go back to sleep after the numerous times I wake up mid-slumber.

"A Long December" is far and away one of the most important songs that has played throughout my life, and this December, I thought, "A Long December." This January, I thought, "A Long January." This February, I'm thinking, "A Long February."

It's becoming increasingly difficult to deal with people. I've pulled patience out of my darkest depths where I didn't know I had an ounce of patience residing. But I can't seem to find anymore. On more than one occasion, I've very nearly lost it. And it sure wouldn't be pretty.

I'll blame it on the weather, I'll blame it on my lack of sleep. Whatever it is, it's still happening.

I'm upset by people who can't see more than one side to the story, who purposely say absolutely heinous and ridiculous things...for what? Some sick joy they get out of saying stupid things? Regardless of your viewpoints, if you consider yourself an educated and mature adult, there are no reasons to say some of the things you say.

I work with some of the most beautiful, inspiring, difficult, wonderful kids day in and day out, and they make me want to be a better person. They shower me with love when I probably don't deserve it, they test my patience, they struggle, they grow. And when people want to insult the families of some of the children I work with, that gets to me.

But tomorrow, when I  go to work, I'll get to see those smiling and rambunctious faces again, and we'll work harder on learning more and more.

That, I think, is a gift in itself.