In my early twenties and straight out of college, I agreed to take a temporary position teaching high-energy eight year olds who so the story goes, had worn down their former teacher so effectively, she had suffered a nervous breakdown.
Happily for me, regular hatha yoga and meditation practices helped maintain good humor and composure, which led to the
students and I forming a strong and healthy relationship. I was also
grateful for the kind support offered by another temp, who took me under
her wing, guiding me to navigate the political landscape of the school.
Nonetheless
I quickly discovered, while my new friend Vanda was compassionate and
caring toward everyone around her, she did not extend the same qualities
toward herself. Within minutes of meeting, I learned she was in the
throes of a separation. For the last two of their seven-year marriage,
her husband had been having an affair. “I only found out when the girl
turned eighteen, “said Vanda. “Then my husband declared he wanted a
divorce.”
