Tampa Is…?

For good.

This past year in Colorado Springs has been quite a challenge. I worked at Academy 20’s Expulsion Program and my fellow teachers seemed to like me until they realized that the Christian books and subtle intimidation tactics weren’t working. I am going to stay Jewish and liberal. That’s when they decided I was too “East Coast” for their liking.

My children didn’t fare any better. They attended Freedom Elementary in District 11. This is a school district NONE of my Springs friends would send their kids to, but I swore it’d be different for us. ‘Cause my boys are smart and delightful. Turns out, too smart and delightful. Principal’s exact words were:

“I wouldn’t say they’re cocky. But they are confident. They communicate well. They don’t hesitate to say they’re great basketball players These aren’t bad things. Your children are also sensitive and sweet. Kind to everyone and very polite. It’s just that their more mature qualities make them a bit of a target with the other kids who don’t excel as much.”

What to do with such a town? Some might say to stick it out and fight for change. Why should I? I’m not a fan of dry skin, wild animals, or snowstorms in May. Why should I settle for second best, headaches, and intolerance?

Family counts for a lot. Not only do we have my parents in Tampa, but relatives from up north - the dreaded East Coast - visit Florida all the time. Three cousins arrived yesterday. Those with tight-knit families understand my point. I want my kids to experience the love that can only come from family.

Few months back, Husband green-lighted a job search in the Tampa Bay area. And I got *two* positions. A freelance writing job and a full-time gig going back to corporate training where I also get to dip my well-manicured toe into sales. I will wear suits, heels, and work from home whenever I want. Beat that.

Then my boys were accepted at a private school in Tampa. As a former public school teacher, I am supposed to hate private schools. But I don’t. The people I know who have attended them are the most tolerant, intelligent folks around. My kids will not be a social experiment. They will feel safe. They will feel secure. And they will receive a superior education no matter what neighborhood we live in.

Despite everything, I can’t tell you how happy I am for this past year.

I got to experience life away from everything I’ve ever taken for granted. I learned to appreciate. I got to join a great synagogue, a writer’s group, political activities, and the PTA. I got to meet some wonderful people I will never let go of and reconnect with others I’ve come to cherish even more. I got to stand up for my beliefs amid hostility and intolerance, which only made me stronger. I got to further appreciate a man who supports anything that is best for his children.

And then I got to come home.

With all its charm and challenges, Tampa is home.

For good.

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