I Am Impactful

“I think the teaching profession contributes more to the future of our society than any other single profession.” ~ John Wooden

Did you know Oprah Winfrey’s spark for learning and creativity was inspired by her fourth-grade teacher? Perhaps you’ve heard the famous musical playwright, Lin Manuel-Miranda, was greatly influenced by a song his elementary music teacher wrote, the lyrics of which he can still recite today. John Legend has shared that his English teacher instilled confidence within him as a writer which led him on his path to songwriting. Dr. Maya Angelou was empowered by her neighbor, who was a teacher, to use her voice to create positive change.

These are bold examples of public figures who have been impacted by a teacher’s love, words, and actions. However, what about the experiences not found on headlines or shared by celebrities? Consider the lives saved, hope instilled, and dreams cultivated, all because of an educator. Perhaps with an invitation, these stories will emerge as well. It is a powerful practice to ask those around you, “When you think about your teachers, who comes to mind?” “Who is the teacher who has had the most impact on your life?” You may be surprised by what you hear. 

My high school Algebra teacher inspired me to be an educator when she watched me teach Vacation Bible School at my church when I was in eighth grade. Even before she knew I would be a student in her class that year, she introduced herself and asked me if I had ever considered being a teacher. She told me I had strength in this area. This belief, coupled with witnessing her unbelievable patience and empathy toward her students, influenced my decision to be an educator, and thus, impacted my life forever. 

May the Lord Bless You and Keep You:

Today, you are impacting those around you.

May the Holy Spirit use your words and actions for purposes beyond your wildest imagination!

May you be encouraged by stories of the legacies teachers have left behind.

May you reflect on your own teachers who have positively impacted you.

And may you be empowered as you embrace, love, and value your students.

(From “Called to the Classroom: Daily Reflections for Educators” Day #155 I Am Impactful by Christina Meline)