It is acknowledged that when the right teacher comes along at the right time, it can make a significant impact on the student’s life. I’m lucky to have had good teachers across my education and career, as well as in other areas of my life.
Mrs Douglas was my Year Six teacher. It’s an important year; the last year of primary school when finally you are the ‘senior’ class in the school before the prospect of high school and starting all over again. Mrs Douglas was no nonsense but she had a good sense of humour. I really enjoyed composition – creating stories – even back then, and she encouraged me in a number of different ways.
One of my stories was selected to be read at a school assembly and as someone who never liked attention, I was torn between the fear of getting up and reading my words out (with a microphone!) and the opportunity to share my story with others. I survived the experience and my story made my schoolmates laugh – quite an achievement for a serious and shy girl.
Something that has stayed with me across the years was a parting comment from Mrs Douglas. She said I would do well, but that I would sometimes choose the hardest path to get there. I hope it wasn’t a self-fulfilling prophecy, but I know there’s been times when I’ve looked back and thought of Mrs Douglas, and how she was probably right.
Over time I’ve realised that teachers come in various guises. People can have an influence in different ways, and sometimes this can give you a nudge or help you to focus on what you are really passionate about. I love how we never really stop learning. If you keep your mind open to possibilities, not only can you keep coming across the people that you need at the right time in your life, but you can also provide guidance and support to others.
We never know which lives we can influence, or when, or why.
Stephen King
Have you had an inspirational teacher?
Inspired by Discover Prompts – April writing prompts
[Photo: part of mural next to book shop in Hornsby, Sydney]
jml297 
I’ve been fortunate to have several amazingly supportive and inspirational teachers–ones who changed the course of my life. And I realized only recently that the few terrible and completely uninspiring teachers I had also ultimately had a positive influence on me–either by showing me traits I didn’t want to emulate or by making a subject so boring that I chose to go in another direction–one that was life-changing and just right for me.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That is so insightful, Donna! Not only have you had people who have had a positive influence, but you’ve learned from those that were less inspiring. It shows great depth to be able to learn from various encounters and experiences, and I admire that 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
I don’t know if this is a relatable feeling..I find immense joy in reading what you write. My teachers from kindergarten till post graduation each one of them helped me be a person I am. Blessed and joyful..thank you for such an amazing reminder.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure and I’m so pleased that you have had great teachers along your journey too 😊
LikeLike
“She said I would do well, but that I would sometimes choose the hardest path to get there. ” – Spooky!
Yes, I’ve been fortunate enough to have had high school teachers who listened as if I was an adult not some sullen teen which I certainly was.
I’m glad you wrote something more personal. It’s nice to get to know bloggers 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Lani, and I’m glad you had some great teachers along the way too that could see past a teenage exterior!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have had a handful of amazing teachers over the years that have impacted my life. This post also reminds me of a post I recently written titled “What Makes a Good Teacher?” I think you and your readers will enjoy it
https://reallifeofanmsw.com/2020/03/13/what-makes-a-good-teacher/
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your comments and for the link 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
The teacher who headed the English department, in public high school, presented me with an award as I went out the door. She was inspirational. She recommended a few books to help me round out what I was already interested in reading.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a great teacher! It sounds like she was very supportive and really put thought into what would help you ☺️
LikeLiked by 1 person