Back to Normal

By Joe Rector

Things are back to normal for the most part. Eight weeks ago, I managed to nearly sever my left ring finger with a table saw. Folks ask me if I’m finished using the thing, and I tell them yes … until I figure out something else, I want to try to make and find the money for the materials. If you don’t remember, I once declared that everything that I put together has some noticeable flaw in it. At any rate, I’m doing my exercise to regain use of the finger, and the rest of life goes on as normal.

I’m eternally grateful that I don’t have to teach anymore. This beginning the school year by the first of August is as ridiculous as anything I’ve ever heard of. Remember the old days when school was out the first week of June and doors didn’t open until the day after Labor Day? Do you also remember achievement tests? They marked the progress of students, but teachers’ jobs didn’t rely on student scores. Neither did students stress over the grades they made, although all wanted to do well on the test.

My patience is shorter than before, and I don’t think I could substitute teach again. I enjoyed the pay and most of the students, but just a few wise guys made the thought of returning after covid frightening.

I’m back to staying up late. I’ve always enjoyed staying up, even in those days when television stations played the National Anthem and allowed TV snow or an Indian chief’s head to appear until the next morning. These days, I sit on the couch and watch YouTube videos, mostly about Caitlin Clark and politics. Before I know it, the clock face displays 1:00 or 2:00 a.m. I am smart enough to hit the bed earlier on the nights before I go to work at 5:00 a.m.

I’m enjoying the church choir. Gage Sharp is a tremendous leader who can make sure we have plenty of music. He uses a combination of hymns for us older guys and more contemporary pieces for the praise band. Paula Helton is an accomplished pianist and choir director, so she can fill in and help Gage to teach us our parts. I’ve developed a new set of friends with this group, and to be honest, Wednesday evening practice is my favorite time of the week.

I’ve cut my attention of the presidential race this year. In past elections, I’ve argued with folks and left social media with a sour attitude. Not paying attention to those outlets, other than to check on family and friends, makes life much brighter. I don’t really care who supports whom; I just don’t want flames to lick our heels when we fight.

By the time this goes to print, the UT football team should have its first win. I love to watch them play, but sometimes I have to turn off the television because my nerves are frayed. I want the team to have a good season; a bright blue sky on Saturday in the fall signals it’s game day. The first game is supposed to be wet and hot, but I’ll wait for the weather dog report: if he comes in wet, it’s raining; if he doesn’t come in at all, it’s windy; and if he walks in and drops on the floor under the dining room table, it’s hot.

Hold on tight to these last few days of summer. They’re special, and no one knows if they will be around for the next one. I’m happiest when I write, and my prayer before I begin is that I can in some way reach at least one person. It’s an honor to share my thoughts with you. Have a good week.