A Teacher’s Influence

In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well.

As a child, I wanted to be a teacher. I was shy and bookish, and teachers were superheroes who could conquer the worst math problems with ease. My fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Deadrick, helped me overcome some of my shyness by encouraging us to read our poems and stories aloud to the class. My sixth-grade English teacher, Mrs. Decker, made unique spelling lists for me each week because I’d already completed the ones that were part of the curriculum. My high school history teacher, Mr. Mathews, steered me toward books that have influenced me throughout life. Each of my teachers made me feel seen and cared for throughout my school years.

As a parent, I appreciate teachers in a whole new way. I’ve seen them gently support my child in her weaknesses and encourage her in her strengths. I’ve witnessed their ability to see my child for who she is and call out the best in her.

Observing their genuine care makes me want nothing more than to respond in kind. Of course, we send Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and end-of-year gifts, but I try to check in more frequently. I send my kids on reconnaissance missions to find out their teacher’s favorite coffee drink that we can pick up and bring in on a cold day. And at various times in the school year, I make a point of finding out if their classroom needs any school supply refills. These small measures demonstrate just a fraction of the gratitude I feel.

Not everyone has regular contact with elementary school teachers. Still, when we begin to consider other “teachers” in our lives, the list grows long: mentors, pastors, leaders of nonprofits, Sunday school teachers, or team managers. God gave each of us gifts, but when we encourage someone in their gifting—like a teacher—our gratitude can be one more inspiration for them to keep going.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Thank a teacher or mentor who has influenced you, a family member, or a loved one.