"I see," said the blind man, as he took out his hammer and saw.

This strip is half literal. My mentor really did receive an email which used the term "rose colored glasses" in regard to first year teachers, and while I didn't literally go out and buy a pair, the idea of keeping them on became a pretty regular part of my consciousness through the winter. If there really is a foot waiting to fall, I want to be sure to have a positive head when it does. I don't really think there's any danger in having an optimistic outlook. It's not always easy - today I watched 60 eighth graders confidently crank out essays but the 61st who really didn't do much is the one who sticks in my mind- but starting with the bright side means I can stay focused on the desired bright results. I'll pick up the pieces as I move forward.