Three students were absent from my class this morning, and one other was listed on a private memo as “living dead” and could be pulled from class without notice at any moment. The high school where I teach a dual-credit Texas Government class for the local community college was conducting a Shattered Dreams exercise. The three missing students were involved in a faux drunk-driving scenario designed to startle kids into compliance with underage drinking laws.

I know it was just a performance, and I know it was geared toward the students, but it was troublesome to try to teach my class with three kids out and knowing that one could “drop dead” at any moment. I’ve had enough grief in my life to have to deal with fake grief, too.

The good news about my class is that my “observation” day was last week, and I’ve already received some positive (albeit informal … the official report will follow) feedback. That made me feel good! 🙂  I’m enjoying teaching, but I’m still working out the kinks in lesson planning and whatnot. Some days, I think I learn as much as they do! 🙂

Back to the Shattered Dreams exercise … it’s just one more stark reminder to cherish each day. Don’t take it for granted. If there’s someone you have on your heart who you feel like you ought to write or call, don’t procrastinate. Let them know that you care, because we aren’t promised tomorrow.