11:14 AM - My old coworker reached out to me just now. She wanted to know how I was doing after the chaotic series of events that led to my departure. It was difficult not to be a little honest about how I'd been feeling lately, though it would've been hard to articulate why I was so feeling so severely down while under such mundane happenings. Nonetheless, we chatted and caught up with eachother. It's good to know they're finally finding replacement staff for my position. But as well, she took the time to tell me how the kids were doing. She told me many of them still talk about me and ask where I am. She told me that my work there really did have an impact on them; that I really and truly was a good teacher for them. For all the utter shame and fear I've felt lately, I'm glad she told me that. There are still parts of me worth saving, worth living for. I am capable of the good and kindness I want to see from myself. I have tangible proof of that, of my ability to impact others positively. So, I'll have to keep trying then! It's been well over a month-long episode of what I'd call pretty severe depression, but I'll weather this storm. I will find respite soon enough, I'm sure of it now.
