Thank you for your kind words about teaching being in my blood. I feel so fortunate to have an opportunity to learn with you and everyone else in our class. I really believe in the quote from Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard that “to be a teacher in the right sense is to be a learner.”

I don’t know if I would say I put up with a lot (in the negative sense). Rather, having been through a lot, I understand the “real world” can present unexpected challenges. I admire what you and your classmates are trying to achieve. That you are fighting against the odds in many cases makes it that much more inspiring.

I want to inspire you and your classmates and help you overcome your obstacles, but I try to offer a hand up and not a hand out. You need to work for it! Admittedly, I am always learning to be a better teacher, but I treasure the opportunity to improve my abilities.

As for your question: yes, you are definitely one of my great students with a bright future. I don’t think any of us is perfect, but as long as we continue to strive towards improvement success is never that far away.