I am no longer a professor.

That's not entirely true. I still have to do a few meetings as well as input final grades, but after last night's snowstorm (very mild compared to Midwest standards) there was a certain cleansing of the soul that took place. I'm done. I know I'm done. I know the flavor of done. I also know that
a beginning is gearing up and I have to get rolling again.

I've started to pack. There was some initial protestation. I had resistence. Now I've completed my first wave. One suitcase is packed, paperwork has been prepped for filing and storage, recyclables accruing for deposit, and my kitchen is prepped.

Tonight I go out with my students. I will socialize. I will no longer be their professor. I can drop the conversation of training and just be their friend.

hoo-f*ck#ng-ray.