She asked, "Mama, are teachers mothers?"
I said, "Some of them are."
She said, "You're kinda like a teacher, because you teach people respect."
I smiled and thanked her for such a nice compliment.
I love teachers. I think they are unsung hero(ine)s and undervalued in our current culture. Having volunteered in the classroom quite often, experiencing the level of energy and creativity and focus that they must use every day is daunting. I come home exhausted after one day and have a renewed appreciation for what good teachers feel every day. They are often vilified in the press for wanting to secure a comfortable future for themselves and some degree of job security. If we really think about the impact a good teacher has on our children and by default, our future, I think the bartering between teachers unions and the local governments would be a lot easier.
Skye sees me as a teacher of respect. |
I also feel blessed to see it rubbing off on my children. Donna and I love watching our children show kindness and consideration to their friends and family. We never tire of hearing from our friends how kind and thoughtful Hunter is and Skye has a very unique way of complimenting people on either how they look or how they are behaving. I know how easy it is to forget at times to treat one another with kindness. We are moving so quickly from one obligation to the next, that we forget basic manners and consideration. Yesterday, one of my friends posted on my facebook page, "...To one of the strongest most compassionate loving women I am blessed to know!!" I was so touched to hear that. I hope I continue to earn that reputation.