In These Streets
Today was my second day at my new job teaching GED prep in the education department. I did not even know I was supposed to report until the other teacher came to my room to get me because I missed the first class. After getting all my paperwork completed, I then decided to join the second class to introduce myself and see what everything was about. The students seemed happy to have the additional support, but there were some who really could care less that I was there. So, I decided to focus on the ones who wanted the help. It is funny how God prepares us for every single thing that we face in life. My previous background with teaching 3rd grade and test prep on the college level was right on time. I worked with some of the students on test strategies and you could see the joy and hope in their eyes. This made me feel really good. Some of the students even said, "I am going to pass this time." This was good to hear. When the third class arrived, the energy was a little different. They came in to play, read their books, or just talk with the other students. They are definitely not the class that I look forward to being a part of.
This week, I also started working out with my new workout partner. I noticed her in the gym a few times and really like her focus and commitment. She and I have talked on occasion in the cafe. We met, planned out our schedule, and the workouts we are going to do. The workouts that we put together are no joke; probably some of the toughest ones I have ever done. Her motivation and determination are exactly what I need to keep me accountable and to push myself. The funniest thing about her is that she is like GI Jane. She has a prison body mentality. She does not allow any excuses like lack of equipment or space to hinder the plan. For example, we do not have resistance bands so instead we use a ripped up laundry bag. When a class came into the gym, we were forced to relocate. We ended up finishing our set on top of the table in the pavilion. No excuses. While we were finishing our workout, my workout partner kept saying "we are in prison, we just gotta make it work." She wants to compete in a fitness competition when she gets out. I have already promised her that I will travel to Texas when she does to support her. We will reminisce about our prison workouts and how the journey all began.
There is so much more that has happened. But truthfully, I am tired. The last few days I have been hanging out late right up until midnight when the lights go out. We call it being "in the streets." I have gotten away from my 9:30pm bedtime. I have made more friends here now. We have been staying up, sharing our stories, and our dreams for what the future holds once we leave Atwood. My tribe is growing.
