Graduation was 8 days ago, and people continue to ask me "what's next?" As if this is just a means to an end and not something that I want to revel in for a while. Nevertheless, I do have to think about my future, and so I have compiled a list of goals, mostly long-term, for my life...

(1) A new job. I like my job. It is interesting and fun. But the drive is annoying, there is really no chance of doing anything other than what I do, and being a math teacher in an art school means I will never been anyone's mentor. I want to be a mentor to teachers and an advisor to education policy-makers. Is that so much to ask? I think I deserve to have something good happen to me finally.

(2) No more debt. This is going to take a while, I know. I am still trying to dig out from the failed business venture. But if (1) works, then (2) will come slowly.

(3) A clean house. This is a huge project and has been a long time coming. Every time I feel like I'm making a dent in things, it just gets worse. I need to get this house cleaned up and fixed up. (And then I can throw a huge party!)

(4) My own house. OK, this is going to take a long time. Either (1) has to be spectacular, or I have to win the lottery. But I want a house. A really awesome house. :)

(5) Adoption. With a house and a job, I can finally achieve my dream of adoption. Enough said.

(6) Marriage. I know that you are wondering why this is at the end of my list. It just is.

I also have some short-term goals. Publication, Summer Institute, AERA, a book. Another party. Maybe a vacation. An actual date.

So I'm asking for your prayers. Because these are not things that I take lightly. Thanks in advance.

I have to admit, I don't remember ever hearing of Mildred Loving before today. But when I read of her death in this article, I found myself sad that I had never heard her story until now. In 1958 Mildred Loving married the love of her life, completely unaware of the fact that their marriage was illegal. You see, Mildred was black, and her husband Richard was white. Their interracial marriage was against the law in 17 states. This led to an arrest, a trial, and, eventually, the driving out of the couple from their home state. The story of Mildred and Richard is inspiring and gives me hope that true love does exist in the world.

she never wanted to be a hero — just a bride

So rest in peace, Mildred Loving. Thank you for standing up for love.