Reflecting upon the future
Recently I wrote a note to some individuals who are former colleagues of mine; individuals that I am glad to consider friends, and I wish to share it with you below. Some of it is very personal and I hope you don’t mind. I worked the past 15 years as a school principal, (the most recent seven in Jefferson City, Mo.) and there were times in which it was very stressful. At the end of June, I retired out of the Missouri public education system and moved to Northwest Arkansas. I did that with the intention of jumping right back into an educational position when the opportunity is right. In the meantime, I have spent the most recent six months reading, resting, and preparing for whatever comes next. Here is what I shared:
At this time of year I am often drawn to think deeply about where life is going, to count blessings, and to maintain a proper perspective.
That is something that has extra meaning for me this year because since I have left Jefferson City, I have had almost six months in which I have cleared my mind and reflected. I have looked at many work possibilities and have gotten involved in a number of endeavors, but I have also had the liberty of having many days to follow my heart and my own interests.
Some of the focus has been on a number of circumstances around me, and some of it has been more introspective.
I’ve reviewed my experiences in education, thought about my family, and have been able to take time to nourish my own soul.
All of this has brought about a greater sense of stability and contentment in life — something that was greatly needed.
I have absolutely no regrets about the seven years I worked in Jefferson City. It was a time in which I learned and grew tremendously, and I will always be grateful for that. But it also took a toll on me, and when I left I was somewhat drained and ready to embrace a change.
Retirement provided that opportunity.
Recent months have enabled me to develop a deeper appreciation for all educational endeavors. Sometimes you have to get away from something to see it more clearly. More specifically, I realize that very often teachers and administrators get so immersed in the details and challenges of each day that they can’t zero in on the priorities of their work. It becomes easy to get bogged down in the mire, and the onslaught of issues can sap away a person’s energy and joy.
I have been very fortunate to have had a sabbatical of sorts that has helped clear my mind. Even though I stay very busy (I’ve worked some and have pursued various interests), I’m not bombarded by stress.
That feels very good when one begins to move on to the next chapter in life.
When I return to an educational role, I will do it with a deeper appreciation for the opportunities
“He’s been with me through thick and thin, but he’s also been with Northwest Arkansas through the good times and the bad times,” Hutchinson said.
Northwest Arkansas which has great representation under Trammel, the current chairman, now has doubled-down with two of the five representatives on the commission. Taldo will serve his 10 years as an at-large member, meaning that when Trammel’s tenure is up in a year or so, Hutchinson can possibly name another representative from the Northwest Arkansas area.
Right now, history should note, both Benton and Washington County have two hard-working men on the Arkansas Highway Commission.
A great appointment by Hutchinson was made in naming Taldo.
— Maylon Rice is a former journalist who worked for several northwest Arkansas publications. He can be reached via email at maylontrice@yahoo.com. The opinions expressed are those of the author.