What his question made me recall was, what in the world ever gave me the courage to begin expressing my self in writing?? It all began with a teacher!! And I bet, if you let yourself think about it, there was a teacher in your life that affected you in various ways that gave you an acknowledgment of some ability that lay dormant until that time.
Someone last night asked me a question that sent my mind reeling when I tried to answer his question. After reading one of my books, his question was how I could remember and express the short vignettes on life as I saw it! I absolutely claim no lofty, unforgettable skill, but a deep passion to gather the words that have been there for as long as I can remember in my heart. If they bring joy or contemplation on your part, good! John Heatwole, the local writer and artist called himself a Word Gatherer!
Timid, quiet little Freshman at Montevideo High School, by chance was assigned the most feared, brilliant, harsh critic of an English teacher. That was me. First essay assignment handed in with trembling,hands. Just sure that what I had penned would never be up to her high standards.
The next day in class, keeping my head down, reading an assignment, I was called to her desk. Longest walk I ever took! She just looked at me, and said, “You are a writer! Best thing I have read in a long time.” I have no idea how I made it back to my desk, but I floated on air the rest of that day, and never again feared putting a few words on paper. Another teacher, my freshman year of college, again, reputation as being highly critical, but chose one of my writing for the Freshman Pen … Literary Magazine.
So never underestimate the power of a teacher, and for my daughters who chose that occupation, I am in awe of you and your dedication. And my small gift of writing is just one example what can happen by your greater gift of encouragement to those in your care.
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