My Pet (Peeves)

Life is beautiful, and each day is a gift...but good God-a'mighty, there can certainly be some challenges along the way. I'm pretty easy to get along with, fairly laid back, so what are some of the things that make me twitch?

1. Interrupting Me While I'm Reading or Watching a Great Story

Since I do tend to go along for the ride with most things, my favorite way to unwind is by getting lost in a great story. I require nothing more than a book or screen...and some solitude. Interrupting said-solitude will result in this face:

Not pretty! And remember: if Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. If you see me caught up in a world of wonder and imagination, either join in (quietly!) or back away s-l-o-w-l-y.

2. Overinflated Anger

One of my favorite things a student ever told me was, "You don't get mad...you get serious." A number of his classmates who'd been listening nodded in solemn agreement. And I thought that was pretty great because, honestly, I see no reason to let anger grow out of control over anything, no matter how large or small.

Now, having a laugh that's loud and boisterous and obnoxious (and actually scares students more than when you're mad)? I can get behind that type of overreaction. 

3. Judge-y McJudgerson

The kid with the lip ring and baggy clothes? One of the kindest, most soft-spoken people you'll ever meet. That hairy, tattooed biker? He'll sit and play tea party with the little kids just because it makes them smile. I could go on, and on, and on...

...and that never fails to bother me. I suppose I will forever liken it to judging a book by its cover. How can you possibly know what you love -- or hate -- unless you devote some time to finding out the actual content? No matter where you go or who you meet, be aware of the story hiding behind each worn cover.

Read deeply. Watch closely. And take the time to learn...you never know when you'll step into the pages of a wonderful story if you never give the book a chance.