Going to Montezuma, New Mexico is not a favorite trip of mine. It can turn into a six hour drive. They serve the same food on the same days each year. People go nuts and behave abominably. The bathrooms. Limited means of cooling off, and it's always hot.
It was with dread I began my journey on Monday to New Mexico. I knew I needed the class to have a better idea of what I'll be doing in the fall, but I really wanted to stay home, sleeping in my own bed, using my own shower, and hanging out with my family. I am shy, and as a shy person, I find situations where I know no one uncomfortable. However, as I arrived at the castle, I decided that I needed to change my attitude.
I'm so glad I did! Yes, the bathrooms were disgusting and people were noisy. But I met three wonderful women. My roommate, Barb, was from Chicago, and we had so much in common. I had a great time talking with her, staying up late laughing, and bonding over mutual interests and experiences. I hope we keep in touch beyond this week. I never feel comfortable with strangers and with sleeping in a strange person with someone I don't know, but that wasn't the case with Barb.
I also met LaTina from Tampa and Lacey from New Orleans. We had virtually every meal together, and I honestly have not laughed so much in a long time. Maybe because we were all in the same proverbial boat, fish out of water, or because of luck, or because of a greater purpose, we found one another and enjoyed one another's company. I never felt judged or criticized by these three amazing women. They simply accepted me for me, which made it easy for me to let my guard down and to let them in more than I usually do.
My class was fabulous too. The instructor presented the material in a way that made me feel comfortable and excited to teach a new class. She is a Deputy Chief Examiner, which helped because she speaks with authority. Yet, I felt comfortable asking questions of her, which hasn't happened all the years I've gone to IB school. I usually feel like a moron who has no business being there, but not this time. This time I felt excited to attend each session, to find out more about this enticing new class.
Believe it or not, I felt a bit sad when the week was over. I enjoyed the women, my partner and another colleague, and my class. I'm glad I adjusted my attitude. It made all the difference this week.
