This weekend, I learned of the death of one of my high school teachers. Not only was I in her English class, but she also co-sponsored our National Beta Club. As I shared memories with my family over the past few days, I was reminded of the many ways she touched my life. She cared. She was courageous. She was compassionate.
I sincerely believe that Mrs. Taylor was well respected because we all knew she cared...genuinely and consistently...about each of us. She had a way of reaching out to each student individually. I heard her ask athletes about the game. I heard her ask musicians about choir or band. I heard her ask other students about their families. She made each student feel valuable and welcome. Her consistent, genuine concern and professional role influenced countless students for decades
Mrs. Taylor was courageous. She cared about the students and that meant supporting us in and out of the classroom. I remember how she and another Beta Club sponsor encouraged me to submit a paper for publishing consideration. I declined. She insisted. I submitted it. It was published. She taught me to take risks, even when I didn't believe in myself. I also remember when another employee at the high school treated me very disrespectfully. When Mrs. Taylor heard, she immediately inquired about it, advised me how to handle it and made him aware that she fully supported my work and me as a student. She even loaned me some of her classroom resources for confirmation. Again, when I didn't feel it was worth the risk, Mrs. Taylor's courage gave me courage.
Mrs. Taylor was compassionate. Not only did she brilliantly teach us how to think...but she taught us how to think about others. One day, I was not feeling well and knew I had to endure the illness for the rest of the day. My home was twenty-five miles away. Leaving was not an option. Yet as soon as she walked into the classroom, she realized something was wrong. Before class began, she made a way for me to leave class and rest for the remainder of the hour. She was like that with her students. She noticed and she responded. As a former teacher, my heart is especially touched by yet another compassionate deed. One student was having an especially difficult time with some of the material. In her classy, competent and compassionate way, Mrs. Taylor discreetly asked me to work with him during class. She knew we were good friends and made sure we "just happened" to sit near each other. He felt comfortable and respected...and his work improved consistently. She noticed. She responded with compassion.
I will always remember and be grateful for Mrs. Carol Taylor. Each time I write, I remember her. Not only did she teach me to love writing, but she taught me about caring, courage and compassion. I look forward to seeing her again someday. Until then, Mrs. Taylor, I thank you, I love you and I thank God for you. You truly made a difference! <3~thl
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