Considering that shift on Monday

That separation from the weekend, for those who have it off, into the working week, where for many it starts Monday, fascinates me. Maybe for most it seems too obvious a thing to consider the stark contrast. But then again is usually separated by a night of sleep.

However for those who have irresponsibly pushed the limits by staying up all night on Sunday, or been forced to do so for good reason--it can stare you right in the face.

Have done that before--though don't remember if it was for responsible or not reasons--and as you shower if you have time, brush your teeth, force yourself into your work attire, and get to the bus stop in time to ride your usual to work, it can be kind of eery.

People look just slightly different. It occurred to me how odd this thing that usually seemed so normal.

And on into work, and co-workers greetings like normal. Maybe even a bit of an affront if you realize they can't tell? Shouldn't I look tired? Worn-out? Or do I?

And get to work, and it just flows like before, or does it? Feels ok. Uh oh, but there's a mistake don't normally make. But caught it! So ok. It will be ok. Has to be, no choice.

Are you even really there or sound asleep dreaming you managed to get up to work anyway despite a wild night out when you should have just forced yourself HOME on time?

Uh oh, really at work? The question beings to really bother, though so silly. And so you pinch yourself as if you can't do that in a dream.

I mean, why can't you pinch yourself in a dream and STILL nonetheless be dreaming?

How does anybody know?

Has it really been tested? If so, how would you? Remember dreaming where you pinch yourself? And then later, you're like, oh hey! Was dreaming and pinched myself? So that doesn't work? Or it did, but then, it couldn't have. So maybe the key is you never think of doing it while dreaming? As if you did then it wouldn't really work, as then you'd be pinching yourself in your dream.

Who came up with this pinch yourself thing? Though will admit do not ever remember pinching myself in a dream. So how do I know it doesn't work?

Another mistake. Caught it. Catching them all, right? Stupid dream question, distraction. Must focus. Look at the clock. What? ONLY TEN MINUTES HAVE PASSED?

Yeah, been there, done that, no intentions of ever doing it again. Funny thinking about it though. Time can give you that gift. Back then, was just very stressful.

Will leap ahead to the end of such a Monday, when you're starting to drift when back on the bus. Stumble into your room, not bothering even to take off your clothes, and flop on the bed to go to blessed sleep.

Then oddly enough a sense of accomplishment, but still, don't do that, please.

If you DID stay up all night last night though, and are in the US, it's early going into Monday now! And good luck with the rest of of the day! You'll need it.

Happy Monday!


James Harris