Hi Reader,

I have only twelve school days left in this academic year. Twelve!

Twelve more days working at my current international school before the summer break, followed by a move to China.

I tend to like counting down the days. If I’m honest, I probably started around day fifty.

But during an amazing graduation speech this weekend, our valedictorian pointed out something that really stayed with me: it’s not always good to wish time away.

He spoke about the time machine he used to pray for as a child, then reflected on all the things we miss when we rush through life too quickly.

As I get older, I already feel like time is moving a little too fast for my liking. Sometimes it feels important to pause and appreciate where we are now, instead of always racing toward the next adventure.

And maybe that’s because I’m lucky. Lucky to be where I am right now.

In the school corridors, we teachers often count down the final days of the year together. Today, one of my colleagues greeted me with exactly that.

“How’s it going, Mark? Twelve more days. We only HAVE to be here for twelve more days.”

And for some reason, that hit me differently today.

No.

I GET to be here for twelve more days.

And that changed everything.

I started noticing the small things I’m going to miss. I tried to soak up as much of the day as I could. And I started appreciating just how fortunate I really am.

So I began reframing these final twelve days.

I GET to teach incredible students from all around the world.

I GET to work with supportive, friendly, and interesting colleagues.

I GET to live in Thailand, speak with Thai friends, and eat incredible Thai food.

I GET to welcome returning graduates who come back to visit before the year ends, and say our goodbyes.

And I GET to reflect on four amazing years.

There’s no need to rush through that.

Talk soon,
​– Mark​
​The Footloose Teacher​
​🎥 YouTube Channel | 🌐 Website | My Book​

P.S.​
If you’re newer around here, welcome! This community is all about helping teachers build a life of adventure, purpose, and financial freedom — often in places you never expected. Glad you’re here. 🌍