May I Introduce: Me!
Many years ago my mom and I started talking about taking a cruise to Alaska. Last summer, we finally did it and it was amazing!
I have a hard time taking time for myself; at least I DID before that experience, now I'm hooked!
Children's Book: HORRAY FOR DIFFENDOOFER DAY!
By Dr. Seuss, with some help from Jack Prulutsky and Lane Smith
Additionally, I love this book because it was actually published 7 years AFTER Theodor Geisel’s death! His publisher knew of the manuscript and took it upon himself to have the book completed. In a way, this inspires me to be the kind of teacher whose influence continues long after I am gone.
Quote: “(I) made a difference for that one!”
(from the starfish story by Loren Eiseley)
As much as I would love to, I am realistic enough not to think that I will become the teacher that stands out for every student who walks through my door. It has been my experience, though, that I do make a difference for some and those are the ones that keep me going. One of the things I truly enjoy about high school is watching students mature from silly freshmen to young adults walking across the field at graduation. True, some students ignore me when we pass in the hallway, but others go out of their way to greet me and affirm that I have helped them along their way. If I can just continue to make a difference for a few students each year that ripple can grow infinitely!
Believe it or not I actually hadn't heard of this Dr. Suess book. After reading your post I think I may have to look into this book because it sounds like a book that would be right up my alley since it is not just a story but is also teaching a lesson to those that read or listen to it. I too like the fact that is was published after he passed away since it is helping keep his memory alive. I'd like to think that as a teacher I have taught at least one student something that will stick with them all their lives even after I am gone.
ReplyDeleteI remember reading "The Starfish Story" on a plaque when I was looking for a thank you gift for my mentor. I believe that teaching is apart of life's journey with a long road ahead. If we only look at the obstacles that face us, we may never get on the right path. We have to put our best foot forward and take the first step. The young man in the story is right. Make a difference, even if it's saving one life. It's still a life saved. Hopefully, the ending of this story extends and the wise old man starts helping the young man save more starfish. If your making an effort to make a difference, it inspires others to do the same.
ReplyDeleteMegan, let me know what you think of the book - it also contains the story of how the book came to be published.
ReplyDeleteLolita, I never realized how difficult this assignment was going to be! As I said before I really don't have "favorites" simply because so many things touch and inspire me - it just depends on where I am in life/day!
ReplyDeleteWhat I never realized before is that this story comes from Loren Eiseley's book "The Star Thrower". I've got to find time to read it... I'll let you know how the story ends (if at all)!