That’s the catharsis of completing a marathon. Once it’s over, you look back and think: That was … for the most part … fun. And then you head to the beer tent.

I had a long career. Four-plus decades in education. Though I felt the heat, I didn’t burn out, and I never got fired. I finished with my sanity, my self-respect, and my sense of humor intact. I was also decent at what I did right through my final day. These things are important because I’m somewhat surprised I survived. I’ve always had an Oedipus Rex-ian fear of, excuse my language (and the pun), fucking things up:

Let every man in mankind's frailty consider his last day; and let none presume on his good fortune until he finds life, at his death, a memory without pain. —Sophocles, Oedipus the King.

But I didn’t, and despite some adversity, I made it. I finished.

I am building my Substack as a teacher for teachers (and students), including anyone who wants to teach well, in any role. That’s all of us. I’m also writing for everyone working to be decent at what they do on their everyday human journey. In other words, me pursuing my better, most authentic self. Introspection, practical philosophy, critical thinking, and laughter. Four essentials.

Join me. I look forward to your feedback.