“Teachers affect eternity. No one can tell where their influence stops” – Henry Brooks Adam
When we think of our school days, there is always the memory of the teacher we loved and there are plenty of stories as to why we loved them so much. There is also the teacher we did not like and reasons why. Teachers are important. They stay with us forever.
“It’s the teacher that makes the difference, not the class room” – Michael Morpurgo
I had a teacher I loved. I was just 7 years old when this wonderful lady came into my life.
I will never forget her because I wanted to be a teacher just like her. Her name was Mrs Crookshank. She was elegant, respectful, kind, thoughtful and steadfast. When she taught us she brought the world to life for us. She could make us laugh in an instant, yet she was firm when she needed to be. I sensed she loved teaching us, but most of all she loved and cared about each one of us. This was her purpose.
In that year I became ill and could not attend school for 2 weeks. One afternoon Mrs
Crookshank came to visit me. She brought with her a little book to cheer me up and keep me busy while I had to stay in bed. She sat a while and chatted with me, then she promised that she would send my school work home with my brothers so that I did not fall behind. It meant so much to me.
I learnt a great deal from Mrs Crookshank that year and it was very difficult to move to the next grade when the year ended. Teachers are important. They can change our lives for the better.
Who is that favourite teacher that you remember fondly?
“One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the World” – Malala Yousafzai
It has been a wonderful journey down memory lane this month of September. I have been able to look at photos packed with emotions and years of memories. I have been able to think about stories I haven’t thought about in a while and some have made me laugh. Sharing the photos and memories and having conversations with you all has been extraordinary. Knowing that all the children I have taught are amazing young adults now, making a difference in their world, brings me joy. I have realised over and over again what a meaningful life I have had as a teacher. God has led so many wonderful people and their children to me through the years and so richly blessed us all.
“ It takes a big heart to shape little minds” – Abbie Burke
These past 20 years have been a wonderful adventure and the great news is that it is not over; we are just starting another chapter in the life of a teacher. I was born to teach children. I still get excited when I go to play school as if it’s the first day. I still get inspired at all that I can teach the children who are with me. I still get excited when they overcome little things that they have found challenging and they continue to grow. I still get inspired when I see that I have ignited a love for learning in the children’s hearts. I am happy and filled with joy knowing that teaching from my heart makes a difference in the life of each child I teach.
“ To teach is to learn twice over.” – Joseph Joubert
I am looking forward to our next chapter and the new adventures we will have. Let’s take the journey together.
“The wonder of teaching is watching little children grow and change. I refer to all the children I have taught as my children. I teach because I know there will be a rippling effect in the pond of life and it will make a difference. I teach because it’s who I am. It’s my passion, it’s my calling, my purpose, my destiny and it’s my World.” – Grace Allyssa Adair
