Why is it that I can't tell you what I did yesterday but I can remember stuff from years ago? My guess is because the things we do remember played such an enormous role in shaping us into who we are that we won't dare forget.
Like, I remember the day Miss DeClue got mad at me because I couldn't make it to the bathroom and ended up hurling my breakfast into her trashcan. I can tell you where the trash can was, how big it was and word for word what she said to me. "YOU are going to take this trash can to the janitor and YOU are going to show him what YOU did!!!!"
I was five years old for cripes sake. I was wearing 3T sized clothes and the trash can dwarfed me like you would not believe. But I can remember trying to carry that trash can around the hallway crying until Mrs. McIntyre took mercy on me and helped me take the trash can to the janitor. I also Mary walking me up to the front office and helping me call my mom so I could go home.
And boy do I remember the raunchy aroma of DeClue's breath when she came into the office, knelt down next to me and tried to apologize for her actions. While I accepted her CYA-apology; I have never forgotten that moment.
It's a moment that I am sure she totally forgot before the end of that school year. However, I will take that memory to my grave (just know that I am in no way, shape or form ready to go there for YEARS) with me.
I am saying all of this to try and show others a vital lesson. We all have moments where we slip, snap or react in a rash and harsh way. However, I hope that people will remember and realize that just because it was something you forgave yourself for and moved on from - doesn't mean that the person who felt your wrath will ever forget.
And if I ever hear of that woman retiring from the education world I am going to remind her of that day back in 1975 - not be cruel or heartless - but to let her know how much of an impact those actions had on me. Maybe then she'll realize how truly vital a job is when you take on a job in education.
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