what sustains me today

I watched a group of high schoolers overcome or push through their nerves to speak publicly and deliver policy presentations before judges & family as part of the summer policy camp I run at work. In their suits, they advocated for better, more sustainable policies around energy. Their left the week a little more knowledgeable, more connected with new folks, and a little more comfortable with themselves (I hope).

Last night, a group ranging from their teens to their sixties came together at my workplace as we celebrated our volunteer corps. Their warmth and affirmation that they always felt welcome as volunteers buoyed me, and being able to recognize and appreciate them was a moment of satisfaction. To see them chat with our staff and with each other, deepening connections, moved me — I was someone who started as a volunteer. To hear their reasons for why serving mattered to them, why they gave back through their time and energy, underscored the importance of community. Building it and tending to it, giving and sustaining.

Reflecting on my interns, who came through our organization previously. Seeing it come full circle in a way.

Surviving this week with support from so many people. Kevin and the other managers, pitching in, keeping me fed and helping where they can.

I am tired and emotional, but I see good work and good people out there having an impact and lifting each other up. I am hopeful when I work with my students. (I only have them a week at a time and yet by the end they are my kids, and I’m rooting for them. How full time educators do it, I don’t know.)

I have been emotionally drained by this week; I probably don’t have energy enough for hope as an active verb. But I am sustained.