I had the good fortune of having a boss one time recommend a book called, Who Moved My Cheese. It’s a good read and as Hem and Haw- the two mice searching for the cheese can attest to, sometimes you have to change your perspective. So, as I stared at the blades of grass sticking up my nose, I saw the world in a new light. I mean, I guess I was supposed to trip on the leash and sprawl face first in front of our tree overlooking the river. It was destiny. One of those nice vulnerable embarrassing moments that you are glad no one saw. I swore Wally to secrecy. I prayed that the Real Boss behind me would stop laughing and not tell anyone either.

Thankful for the fall, I had the opportunity to see the roots of the tree up close. Those big, strong roots that curve up and show strength and power to grow through anything. The roots are that broad base of the tree. The foundation. That from which the branches grow. And I saw that I was exactly where I was supposed to be. Lying, not laying on the grass looking at the tree, near the river, reflecting on my own roots, and looking down the river of dreams to a future of serenity. But as always, you need to remember your roots. Where you came from. What your values are. What was instilled in you from the beginning.

And then, Wally yanked the leash to remind me we had to get home to finish cleaning out the Academy’s classrooms and kitchen. Real world time. Oh well, thank goodness for mindful walks that throw you flat on your belly so you can re-examine all of your life’s choices as you gaze into the ants marching toward your hairy nostril.

We have noticed a decline in attendance at the Academy now that summer has started. I hope DESE doesn’t track my data because we are doing everything we can, but the numbers don’t lie. The Academy is apparently just a place to occasionally eat, and sometimes sleep. I may send the Real Boss to some professional development to find ways to manage the attendance decline, but I am afraid to interfere with her summer of books, walks and sun. So, I guess I will pray the students will find the cheese of life in the halls of home soon enough. Until then, Wally and I will attempt to stay away from tripping on trees and ladies in the sand…