Reassess/Higher Education

I think it is always good from time to time to step back and look at where you are and where you are heading. So, right now I am a part-time professor at several colleges and universities, driving to-and-fro, while I also balance life as a musician: performing, composing and conducting. A lot is on my plate, maybe too much for someone with a young family. I might take a step back, apply for less research presentations and clinics, maybe teach one less class, and focus more on my composition and arranging. Sure, I would still like to be employed full-time at a college or university, stop wearing down my tires and invest my energy in one institution. I also hate the fact that a big part of my job is applying for jobs. Before I cry a river, I must remind myself (and anyone who reads this - Hah!) that I am one of the few PhDs who is actually working in higher education - so I should be thankful. That being said, some of the ivory halls/walls are getting a little tarnished, while others are getting torn down entirely. Who is to say what will happen in a few years time. Well, as Leonard Cohen said, "At least we have the music."