A Teacher

School has been in session for almost a month now and already I am up to my eyeballs with countless tasks to accomplish. But as I was sitting here after a productive rehearsal with my cast and a fun homecoming carnival with my students I need to express gratitude for what I am blessed to do. I know I often talk about how fortunate I am and how much I love being a theatre teacher. Honestly, the words aren't enough.
Every day I get to work with some of the most amazing individuals. Every day I am inspired and challenged by them. Every day I laugh with them and sometimes cry with them. They make me feel like I am a rock star and the funniest, most talented individual on the planet.
They share their dreams with me, their hopes, their fears, their problems. And I try to help them realize just how amazing they are. That they can achieve anything as long as they work hard and treat others with kindness.
Teachers get a lot of unnecessary abuse from public opinion and the legislature. The hours are long, the pay is minimal and the requirements are huge. It is hard to be a teacher for those reasons- the constant scrutiny and the undermining of the profession (although I challenge ANYONE who believes that we teach because we cannot do to spend a week as a teacher in a classroom, it will forever change your viewpoint). Even though it's a hard profession- I can't imagine doing anything else. I teach because I love.
It is the most magical thing in the world- to witness these kids learn lessons everyday that will help them become wonderful adults.
I am blessed beyond words.