Some weeks, I drown in ungraded student work, pressing committee business, and a general sense of work induced weariness.
I long to set paper to pen, fingers to keys, and create my own sentences, but by the time my other responsibilities are fulfilled, I'm exhausted.
Yesterday, I made my words a priority, and wrote a blog post I love. I wrote a journal page of "I wishes."
And I felt like a writer.
Today, I was back to harried writing professor and frazzled committee member.
After nine hours of wrangling with others' words, Gregg and I drove to a nearby town to see/hear Michael Perry, one of our favorite authors. I'm currently teaching Perry's memoir Truck, and I encouraged my students to attend, promising extra credit for a blog post on his reading. Four students attended. At the end of the reading, several of them stood in line to have their books signed and their picture taken with Perry. I caught smiles and laughter on their faces throughout Perry's 90 minute talk.
And I was inspired.
Inspired by Perry's awesome storytelling and insights into the writerly life. But moreover, inspired to see my students interested and excited enough to attend an evening event in a town 30 minutes from campus.
Words change lives.
How much I needed this reminder today.
You are awesome.
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