Date: Tue 4/27/2004 4:44 AM
Random Thought: "I'd Like To, But I Don't Have Tenure."

"I'd like to, but I don't have tenure."

I read that sorrowful sentence this morning in a message. I had heard that same, forlorn sentence last night at a public forum. These mournful, rationalizing words came from two friends and colleagues, accomplished Ph.D.s, talented professionals, edcucators, loving people whom I greatly admire and respect. That's the tragedy.

Do you know what that cursed sentence really is about? Fear: ever-lurking, hesitating, constricting, restricting, distrusting, self-disrespecting, unloving, debilitating, equivocating, sitting down, hiding, paralyzing fear.

Do you know what and whom that sentence is really about? Themselves.

Do you know what that sentence seeks? Safety, comfort, convenience, security, guarantee.

Do you know on what road that sentence takes them? The well-traveled, easy road.

Do you know away from what road that sentence takes them? The less-traveled, right road.

Do you know what that sentence really says? "Push me around."

Do you know what that sentence really does