Depth perception

I find that whenever I don't have a clearly defined plan, I don't get anywhere. - Laura C.

The teacher's lounge is a veritable buffet of spontaneous wisdom (and unique conjugations of the word "sh#t").
My colleagues are a unique collection of workaholics...true martyrs to the mission*. But sometimes I wonder if keeping our eyes on the prize keeps us from seeing where we are.

"Depth perception is the visual ability to perceive the world in 3 dimensions." According to Wikipedia (the obvious authority on all things) "it is a trait common to higher animals". And I...am a higher animal. I think.

In the physical world of vision, images projected onto the retina are 2-dimensional, but are perceived in 3 dimensions. I've realized that it is the same in the philosophical realm. If we're not conscious about it, we "higher animals" can fall victim to 2-dimensional vision. Seeing ourselves only in the light of what IS, rather than what can be.

I find myself guilty of 2-dimensional vision.

1st dimension - who I understand myself to be

2nd dimension - who other people think I am

3rd dimension - who I COULD be

I think depth perception can change my reality.

The pragmatic in me (currently sharing residence with the procrastinator and perfectionist....an unholy triune) forces me to narrow my focus to the reality I CAN control.

Time for a little backwards planning.

I could realize my vision of becoming an academic and published writer by getting my master's degree. The course of choice (not of practicality) is an MFA in Creative Writing with a focus on Creative Nonfiction.

As of right now, I have absolutely no way of paying for it and no time to DO it. Oh and I don't have any money (which I may have mentioned earlier, but am repeating for emphasis...you know, epanorthosis**)

Ignoring these facts, I have narrowed my options down to 3 MFA programs, and then narrowed things down to what I have to do this week to get in one of 'em.

Step 1 - Apply for a fee reduction to take the GRE
Step 2 - Research financial aid options
Step 3 - Write a personal statement
Step 4 - Pray

Heading off into the 3rd dimension. You with me?


*see www.yesprep.org then add 50-hr work weeks, community service projects, week-long field trips, conviction to make learning meaningful, limited resources and higher academic standards...and you've got yourself a YES teacher.
** epanorthosis: n. a rhetorical device in which something just said is repeated and stronger or more apt words are substituted. www.thefreedictionary.com