Thursday, June 25, 2009

New Steps of Change


"The horizon leans forward, offering you space to place new steps of change." - Maya Angelou


Today was my last day as the K-12 Library Media Specialist in Fort Ann, NY. Yesterday, I said good bye to students; this afternoon, I bid farewell to teaching colleagues and staff members.

Teaching was not my first career, nor will it be my last. I've been a social worker, day care provider, bookstore clerk, and librarian in both academic and public libraries. Now, I'm an online editor and facilitator. If life offers me any other opportunities, I'll accept them gladly.

Forty years ago, this photo of me appeared on the last page of my college yearbook.



Now, as I did then, I'm walking away from one world to enter another. Exits are also entrances. Doors and gates open to new possibilities.

I think I'm ready for the next Journey.

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

I know you are ready and willing for your next journey, but the hallways at Fort Ann will not be the same without you. No longer will we wonder if you are lurking around the corner with your camera in hand!!!! Good luck with your new endeavors. I am glad that our paths crossed.

Mitch Weisburgh said...

I guess that's what keeps you looking so young.

A Keeper's Jackpot said...

Congrats! Good luck with all that comes next.

Lona said...

your verbal and visual reflections are poignant and so welcome. God bless you on the new doors yet to open.

Anonymous said...

CONGRATS!! You've dreamed and had fun evolving. You've supported your little fam with money, hard work, love and as a bangin role model. You've earned the treat-time, to choose your path for the happy years to come!!

Love and Admiration
Ellen

Blogger In Middle-earth said...

Kia ora Diane!

How wonderful to look back over 40 years and see the path that brought you to where you are. It's the same path that's taking you to where you're going.

Catchya later

diane said...

Anonymous,

Thanks for your help in school life and your willingness to follow me here in my "other life." Enjoy your summer, and keep in touch.


Mitch,

You silver-tongued devil!


Jackie & Ellen,

Where would I be without both of you two strong young women in my life?


Lona,

Online friends like you keep me motivated and inspired. Thank you!


Ken,

I hope the paths that brought me here suggest but don't dictate what comes next. Thank you for always offering a kind word or thought-provoking prompt.

Paul C said...

Thanks for providing a glimpse of your past journeys and sharing a perspective of what is to come. One word stands out: opportunity! How exciting.

loonyhiker said...

Good luck on your new adventure. That is the best thing about change in our lives - our pespective can affect the outcome. It is amazing what new opportunities will come your way and the new doors that will open on your new journey. How exciting! Congratulations!

diane said...

Paul,

I love your creative posts and hope to get back into a blogging rhythm now that I'm a "lady of leisure."


Pat,

You are my retirement role model, active and interested and still a contributing educator. Thanks for showing me the way!