"If I Close My Eyes in Class" by Alexandra Koenigsberg talks about something we've all felt at least once, and for Alexandra, it's almost always. It's the feeling of needing to leave, or just simply, "mentally check out." I related to this piece so much in that way. I want to pay attention in class, but sometimes, my mind is just stuck somewhere else.

If someone close their eyes in class, it's perfectly reasonable to assume they're sleeping. If someone leaves the room for more than the needed amount of time for a drink of water, it's perfectly reasonable to assume they're wasting time. However, as Alexandra says, it's not always out of disrespect. It's a time for fresh air and to straighten out your thoughts.