Little did I know that when I entered my classroom, for the new school year in 1960, that it would be the best school year of my life. I was a small child for being a fourth grader, and kind of shy too. What I really liked about the first day of school was getting to wear a new outfit, or at least a new pair of shoes and a new pair of socks. It gave me a boost that I did not normally display. Miss Smith greeted each of us at the door. Her smiled comforted my nervousness. She was tall, blonde and in my eyes beautiful. This is not the first time I have written about this special woman. I will continue to brag about her when given the opportunity. What she gave to me that school year was love and acceptance. She never showed a glimmer of anger and was even-tempered every day. I don’t think I knew what poised meant, but I recall that she always stood with her shoulders back and wore blouses and skirts, as though she had stepped of charm school or something. The highlight of the school year was when she introduced us to classical music. I had never heard of Beethoven or Tchaikovsky, but I learned about them and got to listen to the music of these fascinating individuals. When we had our music time I was carried away to far off places in my thoughts. On top of that we went on a field trip to the Huntington Library where I got acquainted with famous painters. Because of this introduction in my young life I went on to study dance, just kidding. No, but what it did was give me knowledge and appreciation for the arts. It was all unfamiliar to me and not what we had listened to at home. My young ears took in the sound of music and loved it. My heart took in this teacher’s acceptance of a little insecure girl and that was truly a wonderful gift.. Miss Smith you made a huge impression in my life and I am eternally grateful for that experience.
For Free Write Friday, write about your most memorable childhood gift. Was it a Christmas gift? A Birthday gift? Was it something you really wanted or was it a surprise that ended up holding a sentimental place in your heart. What do you remember? How did it make you feel. To participate link with Kellie Elmore for #FWF
What a super memory! She sounds like an angel and she WAS beautiful. Great story, Roberta. Thanks for sharing such a special person.
Thank you! I appreciate your comments…always!
I agree, this is a beautiful post! It’s amazing how much of an influence teachers can have on our young lives.
Hello! Thank you.. Yes, teacher’s can have a tremendous positive effect on those that they teach.. (:
The gift of a kind and thoughtful teacher. Nothing like it!
I agree! ( ;
I had a teacher like Miss Smith, and you’ve brought memories of her flooding back. She was my third grade teacher, Miss Beers, and she was wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂
How wonderful are the memories of a special teacher. You are so very welcome!
What a wonderful post! I love that you added the photo! How very special for you. 🙂 My favorite teacher was third grade, Mr. Lesley. He reminded me of a grandpa and a teddy bear. I wanted to just hug him lol… but never did. He passed away a few years after. Thank you for reminding me of him.
Thank you Kellie! A great teacher can be a make a huge impact on their students..
What a beautiful soul and spirit! Thank you for sharing Ms. Smith with us! Poised she is, indeed! And what beautiful words you’ve written to grace her!
Thank you so very much for your kind words!
Lovely story, Roberta, and what a great teacher she must have been. Thank you for sharing. 🙂 Take care and have a great weekend! 😀
Thank you Amy! Have a wonderful weekend as well…
That was a gift to remember and having the picture added to the story and shows how you do value her.
Yes, a very special gift it was..indeed!
Beautiful.
Thank you Suzanne! And thank you for stopping by to visit.. (:
How awesome!
Thank you Talicha!
Beautiful post. The wonderful experiences I had in elementary school inspired me to become a teacher.
Wow..Pat, that’s wonderful! Always nice to hear from you and love your photography..
Beautiful memories Roberta! It is the people & teachers in our lives that make the biggest impact and hopefully we can do the same for others.
Thank you Mark! I so agree with you..
Her vibrance is evident in the photo. Thanks for sharing what a difference she made in your life.
Thank you for your comment and for the follow as well. You are most welcome!