Today, on the first day of 2023, I begin a new adventure.
My full-time hire date at the University of Georgia was listed as January 1. I found that curious for all the obvious reasons. Few people actually work on New Year’s Day; even fewer when it falls on a Sunday. And most certainly, no one in the hallowed halls of academia. Still, I thought this date to be a grand one.
The tasks ahead this year are challenging, to say the least. I will be directing a MFA program, which by definition includes duties that extend far beyond the classroom and are new to me. But this is not just another MFA program; it is one built with the care and love of Valerie Boyd. And that brings with it added responsibilities. I know I must nurture and grow this program to ensure its success, ensure Val’s light shines bright.
I woke up early this morning thinking about what Val might say to me as I leave behind a difficult year — losing her, a move back to Atlanta, selling three homes and buying a new one and starting all over again at a new university. Val would be smiling for sure. But it would be that cautious smile; one that all at once exuded joy and a measured amount of trepidation. She told me once that fear was a good thing. “Keeps you on top of your game,” she said. “When you have none left, it’s time to move on.”
I woke up this morning thinking not about a new set of resolutions. I am not disciplined enough to keep any that I make. They stress me out by adding to my already stretched-to-the-max daily routine. No, I woke up this morning pondering all the ways I can do my best. What would make my parents proud were they here with me now? And what will make Val proud?
So here I go.
Bring it on, 2023.