I was born the first moment that a question leaped from the mouth of a child. I have been many people in many places...
I am Socrates exciting the youth of Athens to discover new ideas through the use of questions. I am Anne Sullivan tapping out the secrets of the universe into the outstretched hand of Helen Keller. I am Aesop and Hans Christian Anderson revealing truth through countless stories. I am Marva Collins fighting for every child's right to an education. I am Mary McCloud Bethune building a great college for my people, using orange crates for desks. And I am Bel Kaufman struggling to go Up the Down Staircase.
The names of those who have practiced my profession ring like a hall of fame for humanity: Booker T. Washington, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Leo Buscaglia, Buddha, Confucius, Moses, Mohammed and Jesus.
I am also those whose names and faces have long been forgotten, but whose lessons and character will always be remembered in the accomplishments of their students.
I have wept for joy at the weddings of former students, laughed with glee at the birth of their children and stood with head bowed in grief and confusion by graves dug too soon for bodies far too young.
Throughout the course of a day I have been called upon to be an actor, friend, nurse, doctor, coach, finder of lost articles, money lender, taxi driver, psychologist, substitute parent, salesman, politician and keeper of the faith.
Despite the maps, charts, formulas, verbs, stories and books, I have had nothing to teach, for my students really have only themselves to learn, and I know it takes the whole world to tell you who you are.
I am a paradox. I speak loudest when I listen the most. My greatest gifts are in what I am willing to receive from my students.
I am the most fortunate of all who labor ... Continue
Click on the "Featured Story" tab...
|
