I Could Keep Driving

I think all of us, at some point, have wondered what it would feel like to just... keep driving.

Years ago, when I worked in logistics, there were mornings I'd pull into the parking lot and imagine driving right past it.

Just... keep going.

See where I'd end up.

Not because the job was terrible.

Because somewhere deep down, I knew there had to be a life that felt more like me.

Eventually, I made a change.

I became a mom. I became a teacher. And the world became a little more personal.

Over the years, I've learned something.

Changing careers doesn't make life easier. It just gives you different things to care deeply about.

There are days when my students need more than I can possibly give.

Days when I wish every child had the support, safety, and opportunities they deserve.

Days when the world asks more of children than it ever should.

And days when the problems feel bigger than me, especially when I think about the world my daughters are inheriting.

Every once in a while, it feels strangely comforting to remember that I have options.

I could walk away. I could leave. I could look away. I could decide someone else should solve the hard problems. I could care a little less.

Those are all options.

I think that's why having a choice matters.

When I remember that I have options, I'm reminded that I'm not doing this because I have to.

I'm doing it because I choose to.

And that's why I keep showing up.

For the child who's excited to tell me about losing another tooth and the child who's carrying something they'll never put into words.

I choose to keep learning. I choose to keep listening. I choose to keep believing that every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and like they belong.

I can't control everything. I can't solve every problem. I can't carry every burden for every child.

But I still get to decide what kind of teacher I'll be.

And I hope my daughters see that choosing to care, even when it's hard, is a choice worth making.

I know I'm one of many teachers who wake up each morning and make that same choice.

Tomorrow, I'll get in my car.

I could keep driving.

Instead, I'll turn into the parking lot.

I'll show up.

Again.