We all know how busy everyone is, especially teachers.  The daily readings in Better Days are designed to be read in about two minutes. They don’t need to be read sequentially; just open the table of contents, find a theme that interests you, and pick an exercise. You can then decide for yourself whether you want to just try out a practice for yourself or implement it with students. Take what you read and do what you always do: make it work for you and your students. 

The format is simple. Each day’s message includes a topic related to presence. This is followed by a quote or an affirmation strategically selected based on the intersecting connections it has to the topic. Next, a short passage of research or reflection related to the topic provides an authentic perspective on presence. These ideas are then followed with practices for teachers and student connections to try with learners. 

When everything feels like it’s speeding up, the perception of time famine prevents many of us from enjoying sustained periods of daily reading and reflection. Think of this concise and practical book as a framework of daily practices that can be integrated into the frenetic pace of modern life—simple thoughts to anchor each day, carrying you through tumultuous challenges and ever-changing demands on your focus, energy, and time. 

Better days are always possible.