1 of 79

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 3

think"

"Quitting what? School?"

"Yes, and I don't think"

"You're right," He interrupted again. "you don't."

If I'd have had the strength to cry, I probably would have. But as I looked in to his blue eyes, reluctantly listening to the speech he seemed to have all prepared, I went numb. There was something enchanting about him, and not even my hateful determination could diminish the magic of his ways.

Whether it was pity, or a selfish need to be portrayed as a hero, Mr. Bradley took me under his wing. He taught me to be patient, while guiding me towards the strength I never expected to find. The bond we developed was more intense than any pain I'd ever suffered. After just a few weeks, he knew I was a pack-a-day smoker, and I knew he would rather take a bullet to the chest than eat a potato chip. Mr. Bradley was notorious for his vitamins and five-mile jogs. Yet, during his constant quest for perfection, he took the time to lead an out-of-shape nobody down an entirely separate path. He saw something in me that I had always been blind to, and he was determined to open my eyes.

Over the course of four years, he exceeded his own expectations. With his constant praise, he built my self esteem from scratch. His confidence and encouragement taught me to be proud of myself. He made me believe I could do anything. By graduation, I held the world in the palm of my hand. And, as I hugged him goodbye, I thanked Mr. Bradley for putting it there.

Aside from the subtle emptiness, everything was perfect. I started college, made new friends, and even had guys checking me out on campus. Freshly reformed, I'd smile back and usually end up with a date. I could hardly wait to visit Mr. Bradley and tell him everything. But when I called the school that Monday morning, I wished I'd have followed his advice when he told me to never look back'.

Mr. Bradley had recently been diagnosed with cancer. There was no explanation, and no reassurance in the principal's voice when he told me. Surgery was scheduled for the following morning, he said, but the patient didn't want any visitors. I cried for weeks before finding the strength to call for an update. When I did, I was relieved, and delighted, to learn that my favorite teacher was back behind his desk. I was out the door before I hung up the phone. Like a rocket, I flew up the main stairs of my old school, my heart and smile both exploding. I was taken back by his thinning hair and bare upper lip, but as he welcomed me, I noticed the

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Short stories: Angels?
We want to hear your view. Write now!