My students agonized over a state writing test today. The day drug on for hours, and by the time the bell finally rang, we were all wiped out mentally and emotionally. As my students filed out of the classroom, I found myself longing for a peaceful place to hide away. I walked back into my silent, still abode and was overcome with how serene the room seemed. I sat in a student desk in the middle of the room and let my mind relax. All of my colleages had gone home for the day, and for the first time in weeks, I had no agenda. Life undisturbed. These moments are so rare, and most of the time I don't even pause long enough to notice. This small lapse in time only lasted for a few minutes, and it was soon time to snap back into reality. I gathered my belongings, and headed out the door. Rain had been slowly falling all day, and as I stepped through the doorway I smiled. The day was long and grey, but peace was available if I chose to reach out and take it.