This week, we have the unique opportunity to celebrate many special people in our lives, with the observance of Mother’s Day and Teacher Appreciation Week.
It’s been said, ‘‘there’s nothing like the love of a mother,’’ and I believe that to be true, especially in the case of my own.
She was able to stay home to raise my sister and I. Today, the number of stay-at-home parents has declined, due to the fact that some families require two working parents or in some cases involve a single parent.
It was nice to have my mom participate in school field trips, classroom events and other childhood moments.
However, even if parents work, there are still great memories to be made with your children. My dad worked more than 40 hours a week, but he still played an active role in my life’s activities.
When children are at school, teachers are the role models they look to.
Throughout my entire school career, there were teachers that I viewed with fondness, admiration and respect.
Even though I’m in my thirties and most of my school career is a slight blur, I still remember my elementary school principal who stood up for me when another student habitually hit me.
I had a chemistry teacher who came up with unique ways to remember the elements and taught us how to make apple pie with Ritz crackers.
My junior high English and history teachers cultivated my love for the written word and the importance of historical events.
There are many memories that prompt me to realize I owe much to my former elementary, middle school, high school and college educators.
Not only do I appreciate my teachers this week, I often think of them and the impact their instruction had on me.
I received the foundation and encouragement I needed to fulfill my dreams from both my mother and teachers.
It is my hope that you will take time this week to thank your current and former teachers. Without them, we would be without the ability to think critically, read or compose great works of art.
This Sunday, I will spend the day with my mom, who has loved me unconditionally and will always be the most important woman in my life.