Aurora 2025 with cover

Hillary Moseley

Herding Cats

You pull into the parking lot at 7:32 In the dark, the others park, one stops to tie their shoe. You grab your bag, begin your dash, it’s 7:33. Get out your badge, you’re almost there, there’s lights down at the corner! Hurry now, they’re getting close, you want no one to see. These last 12 minutes are yours now before the herding begins. There’s Snot Nose Bob and Pee Pants Steve and all their little friends. The lights stay dim, and the blinds stay drawn, it’s 7:35. I hear the feral howling now, they’re gathering outside, running, It’s 7:38 now, the time is drawing near, The sugar-fueled feral noise is louder now, pretend you cannot hear. They’re clawing at the windows, just trying to get a glance, The feline clutter keeps on growing, first 2, then 8, now 12! Prepare the Smart Board, Jack Hartmann may be your only chance. Parents try the door once more, they’re anxious for a break. Your supervisor says, “Breathe deep, dry your tears; they’re preschoolers for goodness sake!” Chug that coffee faster, woman! It’s 7:41! You’ve done all you can do to prep and keep them all engaged, 2:45 isn’t so far away, in 7 hours you’ll be done. romping, screaming, stomping! You’re not sure you will survive!

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