I Wear Shoes in the House

I wear shoes every day. Even though the shoes do not go outside.

My parents always wore shoes in the house. They owned their own business and worked from home most of my life. I used to think it was embarrassing. I always had to remove my shoes in the house when visiting friends. When my family had visitors, my parents would insist they leave their shoes on. Now I get it.

I wear shoes every day. All day. 

But not my worn-in, polka-dot walking shoes. Those shoes are reserved for outdoor adventures with Yago. Those shoes trigger tail wags and hopeful eyes. Those shoes would be a distraction if worn indoors for longer than the time it takes to put a harness and leash on a wiggling, joy-filled pup.

I wear shoes every day. In the house.

Not slippers. Because shoes do not go with pajamas. Shoes are a cue to the body, mind, and spirit that it is time for business. And the business of teaching is currently happening from the comfort of home.

I wear shoes every day. No matter what.

Because putting shoes on completes an outfit. There are no loose ends left hanging. One thing feels finished, and I am free to move forward to the next. 

I wear shoes every day. 

It almost feels normal. It almost feels like the natural order of things to wear shoes in the house like my parents always did. It almost feels like I am supposed to be living this routine. Almost. 

I wear shoes every day. Even though.

Because a day with red shoes is better than a day without.