As a 23-year-old laid-off flour mill worker, I stepped
nervously into a familiar yet foreign room. As a graduate of Blue Ridge
Christian School, I had been in this room countless times. In fact, during my years as a student this room was the music room. This time, however, I was
entering as a substitute teacher. The first group of students was an energetic
group of freshman English students. I introduced myself, gave instructions,
then settled into the teacher’s desk and attempted to look “teacherly.” When I
glanced down, it hit me! Actually it did; the “it” being a paper wad. I knew
enough not to overreact: I had been fairly adept at testing substitutes when I
had been a student a few short years before. I scanned the group looking for
clues. I knew the line of fire so it did not take long determine the
perpetrator. I called the young man to the desk and asked his name. He told me
a name, but I had heard him called “Wes” as he came into the class. I asked
again. Same answer. I asked if he was interested in a walk to the office with me
between classes to talk about this situation. Knowing the great consequences of
continuing the lie, he quickly recanted his original story. I fell in love with
the classroom at that very moment.
This past week the teacher who providentially was sick that
day went home to be with the Lord. Miss Norma Jean Taylor left an impact on the
hearts and minds of many young people, but I am not sure that I ever told her that her absence
gave me a passion for investing in young people. I was blessed to have served
alongside Miss Taylor for several years; she was true friend and dedicated
colleague. I am rejoicing with her as she celebrates God’s grace in His
presence; free from pain. She is standing among the “great cloud of witnesses” encouraging
those who have been touched by her legacy including my niece and nephew.
Check out these links.
http://www.edweek.org/tm/articles/2006/03/01/05taylor.h17.html
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