Last week was Teacher Appreciation Week. Students at my school had the opportunity to stop by tables during lunches to write cards to teachers. Here are some samples of what I got:

"My favorite teacher since freshman year! … You push me to be better because you know I can be."

"You are effin awesome!!!"

"Your (sic) the greatest teacher ever. You give the best advice with things." (Yes, I’m aware that if I really was the best teacher ever this student would have used "you’re" instead of "your" but …" )

"Thanks for always being there for me."

"He’s funny and not afraid to stoop to our level."

"I’m really going to miss you. I think you’re the best teacher in Oklahoma." (This one is a senior.)

"You are such an amazing teacher, and whenever I need you your (sic) there for me. I’ll miss you so much when Im (sic) gone!" (Another senior.)

I have had more exciting jobs, and I have made more money, but nothing compares to having a kid write things like the comments above. I’ve swept floors, bagged groceries, painted cars, programmed, setup and operated CNC lathes and mills, uncovered the truth as a reporter and distorted it as a public relations hack. None of those things were as rewarding. I have a great family and a job I love, and that makes me damn lucky.