Is this a calling, or is this an obsession?

It is Christmas, and with these few stolen moments, I find I'm thinking of school.

Teachers are in the business of problem solving: How can we get more computers in the room? How can I get this boy to buy in and write? How can I make this transition less crazy? I find myself thinking of school when I'm not at school. I carry it with my on my morning runs, my mind finds in when doing the dishes, vaccumming, even going to the bathroom!

Is this healthy? I know it isn't normal. I look to my other friends who have different careers or different jobs, and sometimes envy them their focus. They can be present, I return to my classroom.

Perhaps if I buy into the Hollywood myth, and continue chasing my dream of having a movie made after my life (starring Patrick Dempsey), then I will continue to obsess over my students, my marks, my teaching. This IS my strength as a teacher: I am all-in. I love what I do and love doing what I do.

The trick is balance. So, I sign off and return to my festivities.

Merry Christmas!

M.