I was a newbie teacher, and he was the outspoken English teacher across the hall. We were both new to the school. Our frequent and lengthy conversations in my classroom interested the students, who seemed to enjoy pretending to be embarrased if they caught us together during lunch. His name was Douglass Broulliard. He was for me a mentor and friend. He appeared in my life at the right time. In our conversations he placed several bits of wisdom in my head and heart but one was so timely that I took it home and spray-painted it on the wall of my studio: “be here”. Doug knew that my mind and heart were not in Everett. He could sense the weight and depth of my spirit and knew that most of me was far away. His encouragement to pour myself into my students and new life in Everett was just what I needed to hear…and somehow, I still need to hear it.
I left Everett and Mariner High School, and Douglass Broulliard and followed my head and heart to San Diego. I couldn’t stay. I’m back in Spokane…but most of me is still in San Diego. I somehow imagine that if I were there things would be different…I would be more fulfilled, I would be less frustrated…
I know that line of thinking is wrong. Geography won’t change my situation. My life is lived where I breathe. The distance that I feel separates me from where I want to be cannot be measured in miles. It’s not about miles. It’s never been about miles. I love flying. If I could bridge the distance by hopping on a plane…I would do it as often as neccesary. *grin* It’s good to remind myself of that. I’m willing to go the distance, whatever the distance.
Be here. Bloom where you’re planted.
Thanks Doug. *sends cookies through students* You made my year warmer. Even now, your words are making me smile and keeping me diligent.

This detail, btw, is from a painting that I just finished entitled, “so far away”. Painting it kinda got my mind thinking about these things (and teaching my first primary lesson today!- yup! I’m a primary teacher!).
love you folks!
*hugs*
elle

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