For all the Teachers who Inspire us

May 6th is National Teacher Appreciation Day, the official day to thank the teachers that inspired us and motivated us to see the world in new ways. As the day approaches, I can’t help but think of all the wonderful teachers who have inspired me. One in particular, is my 7th grade English teacher, Mrs. Flynn.

I will never forget the fear I felt standing in front of my entire 7th grade class preparing to give a speech about the book Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. My legs were wobbly, my teeth chattering, I was a mess. “Anne F-f-frank,” I began to mumble. “Ahem,” Mrs. Flynn cleared her throat from the corner of the room. She rustled around in a large bag and pulled out a pair of over-sized red reading glasses (the gag gift kind that are three times larger than your face) and put them on. “I apologize for my large glasses,” she said, “I seem to have misplaced my other ones, and I need them to see you from over here!” The entire class burst out laughing, including me. “Please go on,” Mrs. Flynn said. It was impossible to stop smiling; I gave the rest of my speech with ease. Since then I have given many presentations and I always think back to Mrs. Flynn. I am so grateful to Mrs. Flynn for the wonderful distraction during my first timed speech in front of a class. I think about those over-sized red glasses, and I can’t help but laugh. Laughter helps to relax you, and thanks to Mrs. Flynn, I learned that at an early age!

Much to my dismay, Mrs. Flynn passed away unexpectedly at the end of my 7th grade school year. The attendance at her funeral was unbelievable. Easily over 500 people gave their respects. Many gave a speech reciting fond memories of Mrs. Flynn. I heard countless stories of how she touched the lives of each person who spoke. It was beautiful, and I am so thankful to have known her in the short time we had together.

I cannot help but feel nostalgic, as I look back on my seventh grade English class. Mrs. Flynn believed in me with such passion. She inspired me to work hard without taking myself too seriously. To this day, I carry the confidence Mrs. Flynn bestowed upon me, and for that I am forever grateful.

This May 6th find a way to thank a teacher that inspired you. As for me, I will be wearing over-sized glasses with a big smile and shout to the clouds “THANK YOU, MRS. FLYNN!!”

Tell us about the teachers that had a special impact on your life. Who inspired you to be a better you? Who will you honor on National Teacher Appreciation Day?