Monday, August 23, 2010

It's the Transitions that'll kill ya...

Forgive the triathlon analogy, but it's on my mind these days (one more in September). So...multi-sport...swim/bike/run; the trick is to maintain your exertion level so you're working hard, but not working too hard. You can't blast into the swim and wreck your lungs for the bike, pedal like a maniac and fry your quads for the run, and, well, you just have to struggle through the run to get to the bagels. But, you also can't ignore the transitions--water to bike seat to open road. You have to change clothes, add equipment, grab a quick drink--and the time you spend is included in your final count. No lollygagging.

The trick is to finesse the transitions so, after a mad scramble, you can smoothly move into the next event--for which you've trained and have some time to settle into a rhythm and just focus on the task at hand.

And ain't that just like life?

It's the in-betweens that will lay you low--the changes in routine, the stopping short, the sharp left turn. They can be exciting, upsetting, re-energizing, alarming. They are the start of something new and, no matter how prepared you are, they are disruptive.

Here I am at the beginning of a transition. Tuesday morning is my first day back in school...25 years after the last first day of undergraduate school. Teacher Training, ladies and gentlemen, but this time it's for Biology. This is a trial semester--do I like teaching adolescents science as much as I like teaching adults yoga? Is this really what my contribution to the world will be? Protozoa?!?!

Hopefully this is a disruption that will lead to a smooth, focused ride. Eventually. I'm thrilled on a variety of levels, anxious on others. And I'm very, very curious how it will all play out (oh thank gods for pranayama!).

Back-to-school outfit is chosen (casual, but not too young), equipment is laid out (yay, new notebooks!), a Clif bar tucked into the purse. I'm as ready as I'll ever be for this transition. Hopefully, I don't need a helmet...

9 comments:

Unknown said...

I love this post!!! You are absolutely right that transitions are the key to life. It is how we handle them that makes all the difference. And good luck in school. I went more traditionally through undergrad --> law school (only took one year off), but one of my best friends from school is turning 50 this year, and graduated in 2008. I was always amazed and inspired by those who chose to go back for a second career. Good luck to you!!

JodiB said...

Good luck!

Jenn said...

I started reading thinking yea, don't I know how transitions can throw you off kilter. I finished with a swarm of excited butterflies in my tummy for you and your new adventure. Being a science lover myself (and a bit of a learning nerd) I totally understand your excitement. As someone who is facing a few transitions of her own, I totally understand your nerves. Best of luck! I will be eagerly waiting to hear how things play out through the semester. New school supplies...squee!

babs said...

Yay! How exciting!

Kitty said...

OOOH! You need the eco-friendly sports drink I'm giving away over on Organic Orgy & Zen of Homekeeping! Come on over and sign up to win some! Namaste and best of luck! Kitty

Emma said...

Wow, what an adventure this is going to be, good luck!

Y is for Yogini said...

A spot-on analogy. I need to work on my transitions. I don't suppose I'd be a very accomplished triathlete — I go hard like crazy until I burn out. Working on that.

With your obvious brains, spirit, and wherewithal, you've already got all the helmet you need. :) Enjoy school!

Mary Easland said...

Oh this is good news. You will make a wonderful biology teacher. Our public schools need people like you - with brains and a sense of fun/discipline!
Good luck getting your work organized and keep us posted on how things progress.

Anonymous said...

Hey Brenda, I just found your blog through someone else's, and congrats on doing what you're doing. I did the same, but in reverse: started out as a college science teacher (chem/bio/biochem/anatomy), then became a fitness/Pilates instructor. I've been out with a chronic injury, and I've been working on a science education non-profit (which has been tough to get started, but I have the passion!). Hang on, stay true to you, and remember your goals during the tough times.

I have to go and read some more posts! :)

-- brooke :)