I once heard a pastor say, actually rap, "You're somewhere in the future and you look much better than you do right now." I was reminded of his words on my way to work yesterday when I was thinking about the future selves of these little people I work with each day. I am going about the business of shaping their futures. How will first grade change their lives forever? The answer to that question is what truthfully determines my impact as their teacher.
My hope is that because Miss McMorrow gave them daily opportunities to say, "I am full of greatness," that these kids can one day resist the one who approaches with an opportunity to experiment with or do something, that under the guise of being "cool," really only closes life's doors.
My hope is that they won't dream of slipping a hand into the till when the boss isn't looking, because in first grade they learned that character is doing what's right even when no one is watching.
My hope is that they surround their own children with books, because they learned how to love reading like they love breathing in Miss McMorrow's class.
I have many similar hopes, and none of them hinge on report cards or test scores. Those scribbles will be quickly forgotten, discarded, and replaced by new ones - leaving hardly an impression on their futures or the generations to come. What truly matters is what I sew into their lives and how over time beautiful things take bloom. That's the impact I want to make - the kind that outlives my career.
You're somewhere in the future and you look much better than you do right now.
What a beautiful and inspiring post! I know you are making a huge impact on your kiddos! :)
ReplyDeleteNot Just Child's Play
Miss Trayers, thank you for saying so. I know the same is true for you.
DeleteI remember every one of my teachers - K through 6th. It's a little sobering to think I might be remembered years later - and your post is so right - those character things are so important! Sara
ReplyDeleteSara, I remember mine as well. Great teachers.
DeleteThank you. You make me smile, think, and reflect every weekend. Please know that your impact runs deeper than just your children. Your impact on other teachers then runs through the kids that we teach.
ReplyDeleteEm, thank you. That's a beautiful thing to say.
DeleteWhat a lovely post, Tammy! Your students are so lucky to have you!
ReplyDeleteSusanna, thank you much for reading and for leaving a sweet comment.
DeleteYou, friend, are a wise woman who knows what is truly important and has the strength to go after it and protect it for her students. :)
ReplyDeleteLori
Conversations in Literacy
Lori, thank you friend. That kind of sums up what I've done my best to do all these years.
DeleteVery well said, Tammy. That's exactly what I want for my classes, too. Enjoy Friday:)
ReplyDeleteBarb, we are of the same mind, and I'm not surprised!
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