I know you're frustrated...

Hang in there.  Sounds easier said then done, I know.  One of the hardest concepts to teach is how to accept failure.  By accepting failure, you are not giving up (this is a choice), but you are deciding to bring your very best to the fight, so that if you fail again you'll have learned a new set of lessons.  Maybe its not failure that you're afraid of.  Maybe you honestly don't know where to start when it comes to the concepts in class.  Please trust me when I suggest that you try "something," even if it doesn't seem "correct."  You have so many years of experience that has led you here...so use it!  Make sure you spend time every day thinking about what you want out of this class.  

Do you:
1.  Just want to make it through it.  
2.  Develop a deeper understanding of mathematics.
3.  Become a better student in all of your classes.
4.  Increase your awareness of those around you and show compassion.
5.  Get rewarded just for showing up.
6.  I'll take whatever I want from this class, you can't tell me what to do.
7.  All of the above.
8.  #'s 2-4 with a little #1 if possible.

Remember, I'm here for you.  I'm on "your side."  We need to go to battle together.  Maybe a little motivation is necessary.  

"I am Mr Jackson. And I see a whole army of students, here in defiance of tyranny! You have come to fight as free men & women. And free man & woman you are! What will you do without freedom? Will you fight?"

"We risk failure & humiliation!" - a veteran student shouted. "No! We will run - and keep face!"

"Yes!" Jackson shouted back. "Fight and you may fail. Run and you will at least last a while without fear of frustration & anxiety. And dying in your bed many years from now, would you be willing to trade all the days from this day to that for one chance, just one chance, to come back here as young men & women and tell our enemies that they may take our time & energy but they will never take our freedom!"
-adapted from a speech from William Wallace.

You are the future and I believe that you can do so much more than what the previous generation gives you credit.  Please...believe in yourself.  This is just math.  There are real solutions here.  Life is much more complicated and will challenge you much more than I can ever do in 12 weeks.