Speaking of learning, my favorite teacher in high school was Mrs. Thisted. I was not very interested in the classes she taught – English, Drama, Writing, etc. as I was more of a math and physics kind of guy at the time but I liked her. In addition to teaching core courses, she headed up the yearbook staff and I was the photographer. I did OK in her classes as I had a pretty good knowledge of English language and vocabulary but I didn’t really like to read or write and had a bit of difficulty with those assignments. Mostly just that I wouldn’t apply myself but, over the course of a few short years, we became friends. For graduation, Mrs. Thisted gave me a very nice blank book. My first thought was “why would she give me this kind of gift – she doesn’t know me at all”
That journal sat on my bookshelf unused and collecting dust for years. I have always had an appreciation for good motivational quotes so one day I pulled the dusty journal off my bookshelf and started recording my favorite quotes and even creating a few of my own. Alas, a good use for the blank book!
Oddly, as I was choosing my things to pack for an 18 month trip around the world, I chose to pack the journal and have it with me here in Ecuador. Right now, as I sit along the coast in Ecuador writing this blogpost, I just figured out that I kind of like writing and apparently Mrs. Thisted may have known me better than I knew myself!
-RIP Mrs. Thisted – you were an awesome teacher and friend!
Val, I truly enjoyed Mrs. Thisted, too. I have always loved learning; reading copious amounts of books and dreaming of being an author myself someday! Hooray to you and Brenda for having life goals and values that align so neatly! I will hang on every word as you document your journey. I must say there is a smidge of the green-eyed-monster in me as I read your blog. You are experiencing life in a manner most of us will never have the privilege or opportunity to do. Kudos to you and God speed!