Do you know that slow transition you make as you pull out of a quiet sleep into consciousness? When you are woken by the sunlight kissing your face as it passes through the window. You hear birds happily serenading as they bask in the new day. Finally, this all leads up to the point when you open your eyes to see the brand new day. It is one of those small, yet wonderful, moments to enjoy. Josh Radin has a song, Brand New Day, written to describe a moment like this.
“Some kind of magic
Happens late at night
When the moon smiles down on me
And bathes me in it’s light
I fell asleep beneath you
In the tall blades of grass
When I woke the world was new
I never had to ask
It’s a brand new day
The sun is shinning
It’s a brand new day
For the first time
In such a long, long time
I know I’ll be ok”
There is something inspiring and refreshing about sunshine. It motivates even the most determined recluse to come out of hiding into the great outdoors. Speaking for myself, sunlight has the power to lift my mood and change my outlook on the world around me. Perhaps it is connected to the childhood memories I have of my mom singing You are My Sunshine. She used to come in before I fell asleep and let me know that I make her happy when skies are blue. No matter the reason, I have always loved sunshine. As my skin tingles and my body warms, I know that I have so many reasons to be truly joyful. Even when I lay facing the sunlit sky, with eyes closed, the sun penetrates my eyelids and I see light. Or perhaps I could believe that sitting in the sun causes my soul to shine and that light is simply a reflection from within.
As each day is filled with more hours of sunlight, my heart leaps in anticipation for summer. I have such wonderful plans - I am going to live in a vibrant city. I am going to experience a new place and learn new things. For the 9 weeks of summer I am going to live in Toronto. Other than taking French courses, I really have left my plans unmade.
I feel blessed to be hosted by two of my favorite people. My beautiful cousin Heather, where my heart finds its home, for she is someone I am my giggly, impulsive, passionate and adventuresome-self with. We have shared so many wonderful memories and hopefully this summer will add more to the repertoire. We will share such wonderful conversations, dreams, and CLOTHES! Then there is Patrick who, despite our short times together, has truly shown me his large and giving heart. He is a kindred spirit. One who I trust to pour out love on my dear cousin, especially while I am so far away. I know that the next few months will pass quickly, but still I can hardly handle the excitement of waiting.
Yet, as the school year comes to a close I also feel an overwhelming loss. Although I have faced many challenges over this past year, I also know that I have made room in my heart for each of my students. They are so unique and I cannot imagine my life without them. Each day, sometimes despite overwhelming fatigue, they have made me smile. They have taught me so many things – sometimes by accident and other times intentionally. As we prepare for separation, I notice a change in my students as well. It is clear what a special relationship has formed during the year. I will miss them… ALL of them – which says a great deal. Even though next September my classroom will be filled with 25 + new faces, there will always be a special place for my first class.
Just like each morning the sunrises and each evening it sets, life continues on, moving forward each day. I know I am blessed, but sometimes I need to sit in the sun to be reminded.
Picture Found:
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