Today I said goodbye to two of my favorite coworkers. Both teachers were at the elementary school I visited today— and both are heading off the island as their three year contracts are up.

I find myself wondering if the next teachers will be as energetic and easy to work with. I also wonder about the abrupt nature of relationships— how at the end of this day marked a definite finality to our shared experience. I walked out the door to the taxi and two people I’ve spent nearly two years teaching with will (most likely) never enter my life again.

I wish them well and imagine livelier existences for them off the island (if not as fruitful fishing wise).

I myself said goodbye for the year and had a bashful send off as all the teachers exited the staff room to wave me off from the entrance. It felt unnecessary considering all be back in April, but understandable for those moving onto new schools.

The week continued on as usual. Wednesday night means badminton— so I found myself in the Kuta Junior High gym flinging myself across the hardwood, trying to stop the onslaught of trick shots, deft touches, and lasers from friendly opponents.

I hover near the net— continually hitting downward strikes off their serves. It’s honestly one of the best parts of the night. However, I did pay for my over enthusiasm both at recess earlier in the day and in the first game. My hamstrings said no more “sky eagle” attacks and I was duty bound to listen as my posture morphed from Boy Scout into cantankerous grandpa. Bent, but at the ready, I continued on in a more muted fashion.

Now I sit in my floor chair, having showered and used my massage gun. I’ve stretched, but don’t believe the lack of twinge for recovery. We’ll see if I rise unassisted by groans tomorrow.