When I say teachers, how many of your school teachers come to mind? Can you name them? How many influenced your life? How many left a lasting impression? Two are ALWAYS at the forefront for me
1. My high school science teacher:
John Gaskell
Science was a favorite subject of mine, always has been, and Mr. Gaskell brought out out my interest. I remember one particular study I was involved with during one of his classes, an owl Pellet study where I collected owl pellets and dissected what is inside to determine what they ate. Mr Gaskell took time of his busy schedule to come with me as I collected the pellets. How many teachers would do that? It’s one of the reasons he stands out as an influential teacher
2. A university History professor:
Dr. Jon Purmont
Dr Purmont is about the only other teacher I have a lasting impression of. I minored in History at Southern Connecticut State University and upon entering my first History class with Dr. Purmont I was immediately drawn to him. I seem to have a built in radar for people I know are going to become deeply influential, and listening to Dr. Purmont for one class session left a huge impression. I wound up taking several History classes with him. In Connecticut History, he spoke about Waterbury and how it became the clock and watch maker capitol. He also mentioned a book called Radium Girls. This was a history of young women who produced glow in the dark watches, using Radium they painted on watch faces, an incredible story. I ran right out and purchased the book.
Dr. Purmont gave you a reason to care about History. His lectures were infectious and he wanted to share his knowledge with everyone in his class. It’s one of the reasons he’s successful as a teacher and why he left lasting impression. But you know not ALL teachers are found in a school setting.
Friends can have a huge influence and the best teachers you’ve ever had. That’s been my case. I’ve learned some valuable lessons from my friends. I’ve learned who I want to keep in my life and who no longer has any value. Since I’ve been on this path I’ve shed several of my old friends who I’ve learned are bottom dwellers, by that I mean people who have nothing positive to say and who try to grab onto you and bring you down as well. I don’t need nor do I want those emotional vampires in my life. So knowing that has taught me a valuable life lesson.
I’m now surrounding myself with only positive energy and as a result of this I now have a solid core of wonderful friends. These friends have had such a huge influence and they have taught me some invaluable lessons, like being grateful for what’s in my life and not constantly looking around the next corner. My friends have always been extremely important to me and now that I’m on this new path I’ve discovered just how valuable they really are. They’ve become my new teachers on this journey called life.
Who are your teachers and how have they impacted your life?
Be Happy! Be Well! Be Positive!
—
Chris
