The First Day of School

I walked my dogs at 6 am today. As we approached the main road, I felt something different in the air. There was a sense of "busyness" and urgency all around. Then it struck me that it was the first day of school. A school bus passed me then, and I looked at the sleepy faces gazing out in the pale dawn light. I waved at them. I am sure there were streaks of envy as I seemed not to be in a rush.

I wondered how many parents had a bad night worrying about their children's first day of the new academic year. I wondered how many children had a bad night too, catching the anxiety and tension from their parents.

As I headed home, I became more aware of the increased traffic sounds as more cars and busses ply the roads at that hour. I smiled. I thanked God I had a good night's sleep and that I no longer needed to rush off on the first day of school.

It is a blessing to be retired.