Last thirty miles

I am not sure why the last 30 miles of a van ride with students is always the hardest. I am always so ready to drop them off and get home. I want an ice cold beverage and my cats and to relax in something soft, like a bed, or the couch. I really am considering giving my sleeping bag away and making a blood vow to never sleep in another one, except, I actually would do road school again. I believed in everything about it. It felt valuable and impactful and beautiful.

The last two days were spent in Denver. We went to History Colorado, the aquarium, a dance class, and an immersive art space. We did an exit interview and the bad ass hard edged boys claimed me for their group. Not a huge surprise because we went to Turquoise Lake together and watched a storm roll over the mountains and it was magical and unforgettable. I also get them. They are ready to be grown up and be men, even though they really have no idea what that means, because who really does in this world? They feel lost and unsure, but don’t want to admit that to anyone, not even themselves.

They told me they were glad they came on the trip, and they loved the mountains and the city and think that they could apply their learning to real life. One of them hugged me, which was a surprise, and all of them said thank you, which was a bigger surprise. I told them that if I see them around and they don’t say, “hi,” I will be super offended. They laughed. I don’t know if I will see them again, but I won’t forget them.

It might be years down the road before all the learning of Field Academy becomes clear to these kids. For myself, I am still processing the take aways. I experienced so much that I am really just thinking it through right now. Maybe after I get some quality sleep, my thoughts will be more coherent.