There is a school nearby my house.  It has children attending from pre-k
through 6th grade.  Many of the children pass my house on their way to
class in the morning. They will make the return trip after school.

In the 20 years that I have lived in this house, I've seen children grow
up and then disappear. They move on to middle school, I assume.  The cycle
then begins again young children pass by with their parents. We smile,
grow familiar with each other. Then we begin to anticipate this morning
custom.  It's is all part of the autumn ritual.

Eventually, they will go on to better things. That's not a sad thought,
it's life.

I've worked in education since the early 1980s. I have taught at all 
levels. I've been a teacher, staff member, and a librarian.  I have 
grown used to the cycle of academic life. 

I've worked in education since the early 1980s. I have taught at all 
levels. I've been a teacher, staff member, and a librarian, growing used 
to the cycle of academic life. New faces become familiar faces; familiar 
faces become friends; friends move on to better things. We celebrate their 
achievements. We cry when they go. Then we wait for the adventure of new 
students who will pass participate in the ritual then pass through our 
lives.

I am fortunate to have been touched by so many wonderful people. Most
have continued on their way without looking back. However, there are a few
who remember me. They text me, write an email, or friend me on Facebook.
We then renew our journey together. It's not the same, but it's good.

Many former students have the things we think make for success.  They
have fulfilling jobs. They have a home and a family of their own. They are
living a life close to the life they had envisioned when they were in
school.

Others have struggled.

When we meet, I love to see them. Those young people changed my life
for the better. All of them are forever my students. When I look at them,
I'll still see their shining new faces again, out on the adventure of 
life.

Now, as I sit here at my table drinking tea, I see the young families with 
their passing by my window, the children eager to be in  school with their 
friends. Across this country, millions of students are  returning to 
school.  Millions of teachers, librarians, staff, and  administrators will 
greet them.  Their lives will touch for a short time.  And, hopefully, 
they will understand the great privilege they have been given to be part of 
the autumn ritual.