Post from the public library

TONIGHT IS MY SECOND STUDY ADVENTURE outside of the house. I met my husband for dinner at a rustic pizza joint before I crossed the street to head into our city's main public library branch. It's 8:30 p.m. now and they just announced the library will be closing in 30 minutes.

I am looking around at the people who fill the chairs tonight. Many are on computers, some are studying and others, well, I don't know what they are doing.

I think this will work for me. I will suggest it to my study pal for Sunday or Monday. All of my basic needs are met. There is air conditioning, comfortable seating, bathrooms, and water fountains.

I was able to concentrate and if I get really OCD about noise, there is a third floor that is sparsely appointed where the rules are strict for seating and talking. I thought I'd try sitting with others tonight and, though I had to move once due to a chatting couple, I found a quiet nook in an area that is set off as a business center where there are fewer people and it feels peaceful.

I have just 8 minutes left on this computer (yes, there is a time length, and I like the fairness of this!).


I know that one day I will look back on this time of my life and marvel at the courage, strength and sheer determination that I and my classmates -- both at my school and in cyberspace, have mustered to achieve this master's degree in social work.

~Ms. T. J.