We are proud to present our newest movie, The Heart of a Teacher by Paula Fox. We took a heartwarming poem by Paula (below) and put it to images that I think many of us remember from our childhood. Here is the video, and below is the poem:
The child arrives like a mystery box... with puzzle pieces inside some of the pieces are broken or missing... and others just seem to hide But the HEART of a teacher can sort them out... and help the child to see the potential for greatness he has within... a picture of what he can be Her goal isn't just to teach knowledge... by filling the box with more parts it's putting the pieces together... and creating a work of art The process is painfully slow at times... some need more help than others each child is a work in progress... with assorted shapes and colors First she creates a classroom... where the child can feel safe in school where he never feels threatened or afraid to try... and kindness is always the rule She knows that a child can achieve much more when he feels secure inside when he's valued and loved... and believes in himself ...and he has a sense of pride She models and teaches good character... and respect for one another how to focus on strengths...not weaknesses and how to encourage each other She gives the child the freedom he needs... to make choices on his own so he learns to become more responsible... and is able to stand alone He's taught to be strong and think for himself... as his soul and spirit heal and the puzzle that's taking shape inside... has a much more positive feel The child discovers the joy that comes... from learning something new... and his vision grows as he begins to see all the things that he can do A picture is formed as more pieces fit... an image of the child within with greater strength and confidence... and a belief that he can win! All because a hero was there... in the HEART of a teacher who cared enabling the child to become much more... than he ever imagined...or dared A teacher with a HEART for her children... knows what teaching is all about she may not have all the answers... but on this...she has no doubt When asked which subjects she loved to teach, she answered this way and smiled... "It's not the subjects that matter... It's all about teaching the CHILD."
I remember my 7th grade social studies teacher, Mrs. Oppenborn, and the valuable life lesson she taught me one day. One day after Halloween, Mrs. Oppenborn brought in candy for my class. We all rushed up to take it, and then were on to the next activity. Mrs. Oppenborn stopped us with the following observation, "I noticed that none of you said 'thank you' when you took the candy." She went on to say, "You're probably not going to hear many people tell you this, but remember to say 'thank you' when you receive something you didn't ask for. I didn't have to bring in candy for you all, and you didn't have to say anything. But, I did, so you should consider showing your gratitude."
That profound statement planted a seed of gratitude in me and made me realize how blessed I am to to receive gifts I did not deserve. How have teachers made an impact in your life? How do you plan on living out their lessons?