If you have talked to me about TV in the last 9 months or so you would know that I do enjoy a little Glee! every week. This past week was the season finale and it wrapped up some story lines and opened some doors for next season. It paralleled the real life ending to a school year with its stories of personalities, idiosyncrasies, dramas, home life problems and general ups and downs of life, both for staff members and students. We all have stories to tell, with or without bursting into song, and most of us have pressures and stress on a regular basis. I try to deal with mine with an optimistic outlook and the knowledge that I can lean on certain people if I need to. I have leaned on God a lot and don't always get the answers I want to but I continue to have faith. I am thankful for an awful lot.
In the finale of Glee! the other day the kids sang a song to their teacher. It was an old and special song for us who grew up in the 60s and 70s. "To Sir with Love" is from the 1967 movie of the same name and it is the story of an extraordinary teacher in London. More than anything it speaks to tolerance, acceptance, being open to things that might make us uncomfortable and love in all forms. By the end when the students must say goodbye to a teacher they did not want in a year that made them grow as human beings they realize that someone special has entered their lives and left a mark. I know educators tend to get put down a lot but I want to say that from where I sit I know some amazing teachers and they need to be appreciated. They are not all conventional, not all well paid, not always seen for who they really are and how hard they work. Often they are under-appreciated.
This year I want to say I appreciate you. With many thanks I want to acknowledge just a few of these fine teachers: Cathy, Melissa, Rebecca, Virginia, Eric, Shane, and alllll of Stefan's who hung in there till now,and my friends from Mt. Nittany who are moving on. Oh, and Will Shuster, too.
"The time has come,
For closing books and long last looks must end,
And as I leave,
I know that I am leaving my best friend,
A friend who taught me right from wrong,
And weak from strong,
That's a lot to learn,
What, what can I give you in return?
If you wanted the moon I would try to make a start,
But I, would rather you let me give my heart,
To Sir, with Love"
Diane, so beautifully stated. I have to admit, there have been teachers both in my life, and in my boys', where I have wanted to write their names across the sky in letters..."that would soar a thousand feet high"...to those sirs and ma'ams with love. Incidentally, you are one of them. Love & hugs, to you! Jodi :)
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