Friday’s classes were a bit strange. As I think I mentioned, I’d only slept a couple of hours the night before, which is actually quite normal for me. Normal or not, it does leave me feeling a bit strung out and capable of saying just about anything. It’s cool when it works, but some days it’s a struggle to put words to the thoughts.
I’ve never tried so hard before to get people to drop a course of mine (other people's courses, sure, but not my own). Although I’m rather used to the January rush for seats—the golden ticket to a place in English 1101—even I was a bit overwhelmed by the vast number of people who showed up for my first class. Of course, I wanted to sign everyone in, but it’s just not possible. Maybe a lottery system would work better. Regardless, I thought the best way would be simply to point out all the reasons for not doing my course. Really, I’ve never done that before—just an example of the kind of bizarre inspiration that enters my head and leaves my lips when I stand before an audience of students without having slept. On the one hand, I hope no one was offended. On the other hand, I hope a few people who were already having doubts did sign out of the course simply because that would leave room for some of the ones who truly wanted in and would be willing to work hard to do well.
I’ll talk briefly about this in class tomorrow (Monday), but for now I just wanted to assure you that everyone who is in the class is welcome and I truly hope, and believe, that you will enjoy the course. Most people do. And I really don’t want anyone to leave. It’s never-ending fun. A virtual Funapalooza. The reasons I gave for someone possibly not wanting to do the course are legitimate, however. But I also happen to believe one needs to confront such challenges in order to get the most out of life. I mean, even Nick Lachey got married again. And Jessica Simpson went out with another football player. So if Nick and Jessica can overcome adversity, so can we all, surely.
So welcome to 2011 and welcome to English 1101. I’m glad you decided to stay. You won’t regret it. Unless, of course, you do.
GC
1 comment:
This is probably my favorite post of yours. No....the library one was incredible; now I'm torn. Ha ha, I'd like to see you try to function with little sleep in our class...it would be incredibly entertaining if you don't mind me saying so.
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