This is my face at 15 when asked
to write a five paragraph theme.
You, with dry wit, calm guidance, and very restrained amusement,
will not be surprised
how much I've learned to love form,
Simplicity. Structure.
They have proved enduring and practical.
Some lessons do sink in, eventually.
With gratitude and thanks,
Elizabeth
1 comment:
Wednesday evening I walked to the street and gathered the post. I saw your name on the card and instantly Frost's "Dust of Snow" began bouncing between my ears...what a delight; you made this old heart revisit his youth.
I have never forgotten your face--cannot say that about many of my charges. Beautiful,yes, but I always anticipated your arrival in class speculating upon which face Elizabeth would be wearing...your endearing pout is locked in my memory banks..."the look" would appear when I suggested the troops move north-north-west and you, of course, would be thinking "What has possessed that idiot"? However, I always respected your artistic passions and tried to loosen the reins...apparently not sufficiently as suggested by the tortured soul depicted on your post and being relegated to a dusty shelf along with the prescribed theme.
Lying in one of our scrapbooks is a photo of you in a lovely navy gown along with Brother Cude. Always makes me smile...
Some of your posts have caused me to question your happiness and well-being...but I asked myself if this posture was of Elsbeth or her dramatis persona. Just know that you are very dear to me, and I would welcome the opportunity to come to know how "life-ing" is proceeding for you...your lovely daughter, your parents, your work, your world view. You may know that my friend and colleague Grady Locklear died late autumn. At his funeral and memorial services I was privileged to converse with several former students. As a result, I guess, I have recounted many interactions with former students and the joy with which they have blessed me.
I don't do social media; I do well to operate the tv remote. However, I would appreciate the opportunity to communicate with you via phone or email. Debbie will send you that contact information on a private platform.
You remain dear to me. Love and Godspeed, pt
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