A Reason Why I Love Teaching
Every so often, teaching gifts us with a reminder that goes far beyond test scores, lesson plans, or classroom routines. This week, mine came in the form of an unexpected email from a former student who is now a senior in high school.
Here’s what he wrote:
Hey Mrs. Ormsbee, I’m sure you remember me of course from all the problems that I gave you as a child LOL. I am emailing you today to say thanks a lot for helping me grow up and be the person that I am today! It’s hard to believe that it was just 7 years ago that I was sitting on that rug in your classroom getting in trouble for fooling around and now I am going into what is going to be my last year of high school, my senior year.
One thing you taught me was that if I focused and put my mind into my work and gave 100% effort in what I do, I’d be able to accomplish a lot—and I will always remember you being the one and only teacher to tell me that. Because of that one thing you said to me that day, I am now able to do a lot of things, and work to my full potential with sports and school work. Thank you for teaching me something I didn’t know about myself and probably would have never found out if it weren’t for you.
It was a blessing to have you as my 4th grade teacher, and the kids you have now are so lucky to have you as a teacher as well. I wish I could rewind time and sit in that classroom just one more time.
When I read his words, I just sat there smiling (and tearing up, if I’m being honest).
Planting Seeds We May Never See Bloom
So much of teaching is unseen. We pour out words of encouragement, nudge students to try again, remind them of their potential often without knowing whether those seeds will take root. This message was a reminder that those seeds do grow, even if it takes years to see the fruit.
The Power of One Small Moment
What struck me most about this email was how he remembered one thing I said. One conversation, one encouragement, one reminder that he could focus and give his best. Sometimes we underestimate the power of small words spoken in ordinary moments. But for our students, those words can change everything.
Why Teacher Joy Matters
When we’re tired, stressed, or overwhelmed, it can be hard to believe we’re making a difference. But joy isn’t just something students need, it’s something that sustains us, too. These types of messages remind me that the joy in teaching comes from connection, not perfection. That joy is what carries us through the hard seasons.
This is why I love teaching. It isn’t the perfectly sharpened pencils or the neat bulletin boards or even the lessons that go “just right.” It’s the way a single sentence, spoken in a moment of encouragement, can echo years later and remind a student of their strength.
🌿 A Gentle Anchor for You
Think back to a student you once encouraged.
- What words did you share with them that might still be echoing in their lives today?
- And just as importantly, what words of encouragement do you need to hear right now, in this season of your own journey?
