Teacher of My Life

Posted on November 5, 2007
Filed Under career, education, kids, letter, parenting | 7 Comments

This weekend we received a copy of a lovely letter, one written to My Better Half’s 85 year-old grandmother, penned by one of her former students who remembers her, all these years later, as the pivotal figure in her academic career.

Few of us ever take the time to thank the people that have made a difference in our lives. We assume they know their worth when, in fact, a letter like the one I am about to share is the reward all teachers dream of and few receive.

Here’s an excerpt:

Dear Mrs. W,

I am a teacher of visually impaired children and one of my students is learning braille as she suffers a progressive eye condition…Working with her has brought back fond memories of you.
Forty six years ago I was in your second grade class. I struggled with reading and you were not only my favorite teacher but a God Send. Out of the goodness of your heart and because of your genuine concern for my future, you tutored me after school. The way you worked with me did not make me feel like a ‘dumbie,’ but made me feel very special. I thought it was a treat to dust the erasers and wash your chalkboard and I remember you used my silhouette for a spelling bulletin board. You, without a doubt, had the greatest impact on my foundation for literacy and for that I am eternally grateful. I award you Top Teacher of My Life!

With Sincere Gratitude,
S.C.

The fact that this woman took the time to write such a moving letter to an old lady makes me weepy with the justice and the beauty of it. I have shared the note with a friend who has just gone back to work as a third grade teacher in the inner city. Her job is exhausting and difficult. She struggles daily, wondering if leaving her own children everyday to help these needy kids is worth the sacrifice. I wish for her a letter like this when she turns 85. Her work is necessary and important. She will be the Top Teacher of Many Lives. Let’s hope that someday one of these kids will take the time to write her a letter of thanks.

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