March 7, 2013

Gratitude Letter to my Students


To my 1663 students, 
thank you.
Thanks for your curiosity, diligence, excitement, and honesty;
for making me laugh and asking me hard questions;
for your unwavering kindness.

Thanks for trusting me;
for sharing your joys and difficulties;
for letting me witness your growth--as students and as people.

Thanks for experiences I treasure (always);
relationships I continue to cultivate;
and memories I hold close to my heart 
(these tears I shed are not of sadness, but of deep gratitude).

Thanks for living your lives out loud (even if it feels like a whisper right now);
thanks for changing the world, just by being you;
thanks for everything.
After 14 years, I leave with a grateful heart and a smile on my face.

6 comments:

  1. I didn't know today would be your last day already ... Wondering how you feel as this is such a milestone in your life. I am sure they will miss you, your wisdom and especially the inspiring way you live your life!

    Happy Women's day dearest Joy! It's a bless to be on the earth at the same time :) Thank you for the beautiful woman you are!

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  2. Oh, Joy, this gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes. And THANK YOU for your inspiration, your guidance, your love and your deep-seated belief in all of us. You have had such a tremendous impact on so many students--please hold onto that wherever life takes you. Sending lots of love up to you via the rays of sunlight on this beautiful morning! I hope you have a GREAT day in the classroom.

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  3. Beautiful...a reflection of you :)

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  4. Even though I won't be a student at Lawrence next year either, I will miss you!!! You are one of my absolute favorite teachers that I've ever had in my school career, and I am glad to have gotten to take your class when I was so new to Lawrence and to have been able to help with it in the years afterward! Thanks for everything!

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  5. Joy, I am happy to get to be your student! You are wonderful! Thank you for the guidance, inspiration, and knowledge that you have given us! Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors! ~Love

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