Even songwriters agree, it is easier to be happy and stress-free in the summertime. Traditionally, this has probably been due to the warmer weather and the resulting abundance of food. Now, even though we have fresh food and meat available year round, we still seem to be more in touch with our bliss during these long, warm days.
For us high school teachers, the living is all the more easy, given the months off we get. The summer months off present us with an opportunity to let go of all the stress the school year brings. It also is a time for reflection on what worked and what didn’t work throughout the year, and a time to just forget any negative feelings we might have incurred dealing with the behavior problems and apathy we encounter.
One thing I appreciate about my chosen career is the opportunity for renewal that each summer brings. Sure, it is hard to say goodbye to those graduating seniors we’ve watched growing up over the years, but being able to start again fresh each year is a great thing. Any negative interactions can be forgotten about, and we can begin again with a brand new set of students. We can try new things without the awkwardness of interrupting the routine.
So here’s to summer and a chance to relax, destress, and renew.
