Yesterday was one of the best days of the year. Kathy J, our favorite librarian was visiting school to talk books with 3rd, 4th and 5th grade. Kathy has this way of mesmerizing kids with her book talks. Adults, too.
As Kathy was doing her thing I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned to see my friend and mentor, Sue W, recently retired to South Carolina. On her way to the airport after visiting family for the weekend she stopped by for what she called a “drive by hug.” Sue hired me way back in 2001 and has been a wonderful influence in my life.
And if having time with Kathy and Sue wasn’t enough, colleague Gretchen is retiring. She requested a simple get together in the Learning Commons. Gretchen is finishing up 30 years at NMS and her reach is long - retired colleagues and former parents came back to celebrate. And as gracious as these former teachers and families were in saying good-bye to Gretchen, I was reminded of how wonderful they were to me when I showed up eighteen years ago. Among the returnees was Frank, the former principal who gave me another chance at teaching. It changed my life.
The last couple of weeks of school are the longest of the year but I’m ready for them. I have been recharged by seeing the folks who believed in me long before I believed in myself.
LIFE IS RANDOM LOVE IS NOTTM
