Where Practicality
Meets Peace of Mind

Years ago, I directed a large afterschool childcare program on the campus of an elementary school. We had about 190 children attending each day. While it always felt busy, the first day of school was particularly stressful—with so many new names, faces, classrooms, and schedules to manage. However, this school year brought a unique challenge—something that rarely happens in childcare, right?

As a director, I had grown accustomed to the high-pitched beep of my walkie-talkie. Most of the beeps were informational, but on a rare occasion, it was serious. One day, I heard an urgent voice through the static: "Come quick to the field!" Puzzlingly, the group had just exited the building not more than five minutes ago. What could've happened so quickly?

I worked 11- to 12-hour days, often weekends, and vacations were rare. Even when I did take a break, work followed me. On a family trip, I found myself conducting Zoom interviews at 6 a.m., processing payroll midweek, and joining contract negotiation calls. I barely had time to breathe, let alone step back and focus on the bigger picture.