I’m teaching three classes this year: 8th Grade English, 9th Grade World Cultures, and History Through Film. The last one is truly an elective for mostly upperclassmen (ironically, there are more girls than guys…so upperclasspeople?). So far, so good. However, I’m coming across a few issues. The first issue is realizing how lacking these kidsContinueContinue reading “Thoughts On Teaching”
Category Archives: Personal Essays
Reflection of Our Minds
9/18/24 I’m inspired to write this post based on my brother’s recent letter. He wrote, “This world we live in is but a reflection of our minds.” He went on to add that I should create a world I want. I liked his particular phrasing as it reminded me that the world is unique forContinueContinue reading “Reflection of Our Minds”
Unveiling Creativity: Writing Beyond Alcohol Influence
I once wrote, “To be a writer, one must be an alcoholic.” For a long time, my strategy was to drink and write. From high school to when I turned 21, I wrote sober. Once I introduced alcohol, my writing changed. Or, maybe the writing didn’t change, but I did. I’m thirty-one now and IContinueContinue reading “Unveiling Creativity: Writing Beyond Alcohol Influence”
Celebrating Life: A Thoughtful Birthday Perspective
Subscriber Content I just got off the phone with my brother, who turns 28 today. Happy birthday, bro! We shared maybe two sentences on this subject. “Wow, dude. You’re old! Ain’t life short?” “Don’t fuckin’ talk about it.” We changed the subject to more happy topics: travel, hanging out, and his plans for the evening.ContinueContinue reading “Celebrating Life: A Thoughtful Birthday Perspective”
A New Nick in Town
The days are already crisp. I’m talking sub-50° mornings. I walk into the classroom and it feels good! But I run warm as a person. Most of my students, I imagine, are a bit chilly, especially during the first period of the day. It warms up though as the day progresses. But I really likeContinueContinue reading “A New Nick in Town”
Nick or Mr. B?
I’m having a tough time writing something right now. Last week was five days of orientation at CVA. And coming from a break in the school atmosphere, I felt my head expand with info. I’ve exhausted myself after each day and Friday was a blessing when that was all over. I met some folks atContinueContinue reading “Nick or Mr. B?”
Moving in at CVA
I’m all moved into my new apartment at Carrabassett Valley Academy. I wasn’t 100% excited about living in the dorm building with students, but I’m growing comfortable with that concept. I prefer privacy and a clear conclusion of my duties once the workday is over. I’m not sure how some of my duties will lookContinueContinue reading “Moving in at CVA”
Obituary for a Bat
Jeremy, whom I had given the name, found solace in my air conditioning unit to shield himself from the relentless heat and scorching sun. Intrigued by the dark confines, he seemed to ponder why no other bats sought refuge in this cozy spot. One evening, as I prepared for bed, I activated the unit andContinueContinue reading “Obituary for a Bat”
Character Building
Another post inspired by Will: How is life different from the high school years? I graduated high school in 2012. It’s 2024. That makes 12 years. There was an “attempt” at a high school reunion two years ago at Old Orchard Beach of all places. From what I saw on the Class Facebook group, fourContinueContinue reading “Character Building”
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
The acrid scent of cigarettes used to make me wrinkle my nose in disgust. But as I traveled through Europe, my feelings towards the smell began to change. In Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam, I still found it repulsive. But by the time I reached London and Ireland, I felt a strange temptation to try itContinueContinue reading “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”