I was feeling guilty yesterday about my lack of time and focus for grading essays. Tonight, my friend Lanka texted me and asked if I wanted to go out grading. I had a long day, I’m tired, but I said yes. I love grading dates because it holds me accountable and I still get to be somewhat social.

I went and drank green tea and got half a class of essays graded. That doesn’t sound like much, but it means I started. Once I break that barrier, it’s far easier to keep going.

I’m grateful for Lanka, that he noticed and knew how to help, and he did help. It may have been a small thing for him, but it was huge for me: I felt less alone and I got started. I stayed up a lot later than I typically would have (it’s late now; tomorrow morning is going to suck), but I think it was worth it to get a chance to see a friend who was kind enough to give me the nudge I needed.