I remember sitting quietly at my desk meticulously working on the project that had been assigned to my second-grade classroom. I also recall having an intense headache accompanied by an aching stomach. I got up from my seat and walked to the front of the classroom to ask for a visit to the nurse’s office. I believe I got to Mrs. Winder’s desk and uttered the words, “I’m not feeling…” and spewed everything I had for breakfast all over her desk! All the day’s assignments, the papers to be graded, her family pictures and personal knickknacks that decorated her desk all littered with vomit.  I felt awful. But physically, I felt much better. And I got a free ticket home for the rest of the day. Perhaps it was payback for all those times Mrs. Winders had popped the back of my hand with the plastic ruler she carried with her as she paced around the classroom teaching?!

Mrs. Winders is at the top of a list of my all-time favorite teachers. Who else let’s a kid throw up all over their desk and still loves them? That list is a long one which includes all my elementary school teachers including Mrs. Coker Mrs. Burress, and Mrs. Anderson. Mr. and Mrs. Jones gave me a math education in junior high and high school like none other. I could have taught my college chemistry class thanks to my high school science teacher. College was complete with great professors. I will forever be grateful for my experience in Physical Therapy School including Human Gross Anatomy taught by Dr. Bernell Dalley. And seminary was such a formidable time in my life. I would pay to retake “Sacramental Theology” with Dr. Bob Stamps in a heartbeat. I am truly grateful for these great teachers that have made such a difference in my life.

And there are so many others who have “taught” me through the years. Where would I be without all that my parents have instilled in me? And all the coaches I’ve had who did so much more than coach a kid without much talent but taught me about life. There are numerous mentors including pastors, youth pastors, colleagues, friends and so many more.

May 9, 2017 was designated National Teacher Day. It is observed on the Tuesday of the first full week of May each year. It’s a day set aside to honor teachers and recognize the lasting contributions they make on our lives. It’s really a shame that we reserve it for only one day of the year. I encourage you to take some time today to think of all the remarkable teachers you have had in your lifetime. Write a note, send a card, give out a shout on social media, make a phone call and say, “Thank you!”

Mrs. Winders, I’m so sorry I threw up all over your desk that day. I’m not sure I ever apologized for that. Thank you for still loving me and for the investment you had in my life. I’m sure I deserved every one of those pops from your plastic ruler (and even more)!

Thank you to all of those who have been such great teachers in my life. I’m certain I haven’t always been the perfect student. I’m sure I’ve probably been a little stubborn, undoubtedly talked more than I’ve listened, and have even been a little disturbing at times. But I am so grateful for you and the difference you have made in my life!

Always learning,

Ryan