My mother had a profound effect on who I have become today. She strived for me to explore different avenues as I was growing up. If I wanted to learn how to play piano she would provide me lessons. When I had a desire to explore a new hobby she would provide that as well. I feel she always wanted me to have the opportunity to explore what the world had to offer. This gave me the opportunity to, in a sense, find myself. My mother is a wonderful listener and has always provided advice and a helping hand when needed. She was a preschool teacher, but was also determined to always be involved in any school events for me and my siblings. Seeing her at work, and how she did all she could for us is the reason I am where I am today.
My dad has also been such a wonderful supporter throughout my life. He was extremely supportive when I found learning math (mainly,algebra) to be a huge challenge! My father would always sit down with me and help me work through the math problems even if it took five times for me to understand how I got the answer. Despite his endless work hours or being out of town he would help me, even if it meant we would work through the problems over the phone. He has been a fantastic support as I worked through college, and to see the smile on his face as I graduated with honors was a fantastic feeling- to know just how proud of me he was.
My brother, Justin has always been what I guess I can call my “silent support.” He was such a very hard worker, and he was unable to pursue what he worked so hard for because of cancer. When he passed away, it greatly impacted my life and sparked my mission to be an educator. I became determined to work hard for what I really want to do, and to never settle for anything less than the best. Anytime, things seem really tough I find my thoughts of him to be a comforting support and motivation to keep working hard.
My grandmother is such a wonderful woman with a genuinely loving heart. She has been such a wonderful support through her love, which she often shows through a hearty southern meal. The simple, Saturday afternoons as a child at her house have provided me with some of the greatest memories of love. She took the time to get to know each of her grandchildren (all 16 of them!) and their likes and dislikes. She always wanted to be involved in what we were doing, which gives me a sense of comfort and security. Seeing how this makes me feel, has impacted how I interact with my students. I know that those few moments talking with a child can mean the world to them.
My 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Tomblin sparked my desire to be a teacher. She truly made learning fun, even the horrible math and very long spelling words. She knew how discouraged I would get with the spelling words, but she continued to support me and always had a positive attitude when we worked one on one. Her positive attitude and energy that filled the classroom always made learning so much easier and less like work. This year was a tough year for me, and I know her constant assistance helped better my attitude towards learning, which has impacted me present life greatly. It has changed the negative attitude I had towards learning and turned that to a positive attitude as a life long learner.
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ReplyDeleteMy parent taught me that in order to have anything in life I had to be determined and work hard to get it. I see that you are a determined hard worker as well. Continue to strive for higher hieghts and deeper depths.
ReplyDeleteI see that your 2nd grade teacher had a major impact on your life. Do you think that is why 2nd grade is your dream grade to teach?
ReplyDeleteThat very possibly might be. I honestly never fully thought of it. I just remember the joy I had in 2nd grade (due to her impact) and I want to be able to do the same.
ReplyDeleteI empathize with you concerning your brother. I too had a sister to die from cancer. she was my oldest sibling and we loved each other deeply. She lived in
ReplyDeleteCalifornia and was diagnosed during my last year of college. She promised she would fly home to Florida to attend my graduation and she did. she was so proud of me. I thank God that I was there for her during the last days of her earthly journey. I know she would be just as proud of me now too. Don't you think that their spirits are still with us and in tuned to what we are doing?
I agree very much Linda! I think their spirits are with us, and that is what really keeps me pushing forward. Justin is my motivation for alot of things. I signed up for the St. Jude Children's Hospital Marathon in Memphis ( he was a patient there) just in his honor. It makes me truly feel like I am doing something for him, as if I will be sharing that time with him.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful web of support. It is a strong web. I was particularly touched by the motivation inspired by your brother.
ReplyDeleteI too could relate to you "silent" supporter. My brother and I are six years apart and although we didn't hang out much I always know he's there for me.
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