MY STUDENT...MY TEACHER

Several times a month, I would return to my desk at the end of the day to find a "love" note waiting for me.

You are the best teacher ever!
You're extraordinary...
You inspire me!

These were some of the personal messages that were colorfully captured on a folded white sheet of computer paper.  No name was ever written, but the hearts and loopy writing gave me a clue that the student was a girl.  My 9th period class was filled with a bunch of rambunctious boys that were bouncing off the walls.  Since it was the end of a long day for me, I often felt I did not give this group of 33 my best efforts. Yet, the words of support from a 13 year old, inspired me to keep moving forward. 

I believed strongly I knew the girl that was writing me the notes.  She was a mature, outspoken, prepared, creative, bright, and unique young woman.  I would often catch her eyes during the 9th period chaos, and we would share a knowing smile that seemed to say "what are these crazy kids doing?"   Every week I would add the new message to my collection, and the image of her would float through my mind. 

On the last day of school after our awards ceremony, I discovered what would be my last letter.  I opened and read the beautiful sentiment that captured the innermost feelings of one girl.  There was one difference...at the bottom of the page she wrote her name.  I still get chills as I think of that moment.  I was totally wrong about the identify of the writer.  A beautiful young girl with long brown hair, freckles, and a shy smile was my angel.  The truth filled me with awe and sadness.  I could count on one hand how many times I had spoken to her over the course of the year.  Had I ever asked her about the book she was reading?  Did I really know anything about her interests outside of school? She hardly ever raised her hand, leading me to believe she did not even enjoy my class. How could I have made such an impact on her? 

With tears in my eyes I found her in the midst of the craziness of the last day of school.  We hugged and I inadequately tried to explain what her notes had meant to me.  I asked her one simple question, "What gave you the idea to leave me those notes?"  She simply raised her shoulders and replied, "I don't know.  I just wanted to."  The bell rang and with it came the end of another school year.  She walked out of my life never knowing she had become my teacher. 

Every single person walking this earth needs encouragement.  Complaints and injustices seem to roll easily out of our mouths, but we forget to speak affirming words of appreciation.  Chances are most of us know where we are falling short in a relationship, but I for one need to hear what I am doing right.  It took a 13 year old girl to teach me how to love.  Her unselfish actions did nothing to benefit her, but placed in me a belief that I was worthy.  I challenge you in honor of my beautiful student to leave an unsigned note somewhere today with a simple, uplifting message.  Spread the love...and see what happens.