This is Teacher Appreciation Week, so...

[PatrickforB]

I thought I would publicly acknowledge a few of the teachers who shaped my life.

Ms. Shep - who shepherded me through Kindergarten.

Ms. Howard, whose son was killed in Viet Nam c. 1966.

Mr. Akiyama, a true Nissai Regiment WWII war hero, and a humble, genuinely good fifth grade teacher.

Ms. O'Meara, who told me I should take AP English in high school, but I stupidly refused because my 'friends' were not in AP classes.

Mr. Stratton, who taught Latin and inspired me in many ways.

Mr. Guy, who told us about how anti-war demonstrators were treated (he was one).

Teachers take a lot of crap, you know? They are maligned, grossly underpaid, and probably want to vomit every time some person who wears his ignorance on his sleeve utters the tired old cliche, "Those who can..."

But you know, I had some real good ones. Bad ones too. But mostly good. Dedicated people who shaped me in those long ago years to become who I am now.

May all the teachers who go in, day after day, and give their life force to help young people along the way be warmly blessed and appreciated!

[GPV]

1. Thank you! Your memories are wonderful. I hope I make someone's list someday. :)

[PatrickforB]

4. Oh, you are probably on many, many lists.

It is amazing how often, even in my mid-sixties, I recall something a teacher did or said.

Thing is, you may never know, but that's OK, because those you have taught with love and care DO know. They will always know.

[GPV]

5. Thank you again!

[ProfessorGAC]

2. K&R

[debm55]

3. Thank you PatrickforB. As a retired teacher of forty odd years, your post is very welcomed.

[KY_EnviroGuy]

6. K&R. It's a good day to call a teacher and say thanks.

KY (proud dad of an elementary school teacher).......