by E K Stapleton

Created on: July 31, 2008   Last Updated: August 04, 2008

Throughout our lives many people play a role in shaping us into who we become. Teachers play a vital role in our growth and development. Not only do they teach from text books, but from experience and from the heart. A good teacher is concerned with a student's academic achievement as well as their attainment of personal goals, ambitions and self esteem. With the guidance, encouragement and support of such a teacher, a student develops an insatiable thirst for knowledge and is motivated to excel to their full potential. These positive influences in our lives should be shown respect and admiration. Focusing on negative things seems to come easy, but when it comes to expressing our true feelings and admiration we are often unsure of how to go about it. Words aren't always needed as your actions and behavior can speak volumes.

My high school English teacher was a no nonsense, tough as nails guy. Not adhering to the strict rules governing his classroom would result in drastic consequences. Those wanting to learn were provided the perfect environment and those who had another agenda were simply banned from the room until further notice. Gaining re-entry into the classroom required a convincing argument that you really did want to learn what he was teaching. In dark contrast to his gruff exterior he really did have a soft heart and caring nature. His expectations were only that everything was done to the best of your ability. I referred to him as the grizzly bear with the teddy bear stuffing and I had nothing but respect and admiration for him.

The word respect was never used during our conversations, but I showed it in many ways. When addressing him, the title "sir" was used. Growing up I was taught it was a respectful term for those in authority. When he was speaking I gave him my undivided attention. He was always on time for class so I made sure I was too. He never made me wait for class to start so it would have been disrespectful for him to delay the start of class on account of my tardiness. Homework and assignments were handed in on time. A deadline is a deadline, no excuses. I'm sure there were times he didn't feel like putting together lesson plans, grading papers or marking tests, but it was his responsibility. Out of respect for him, my responsibility was to complete the work he had taken the time to prepare. Trust me, other teachers got every excuse in the book. Probably the most obvious way I showed my respect and admiration was our Friday afternoon lunches.

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