Mr. B

Dear Mr. Braafladt,

It's not particularly hard to identify the most influential teachers in my life as I think about them time and time again, year after year. I had many. But one who stands out above the rest.

I walked into your English class trembling with fear because I had heard rumors about how strict you were from other students and those rumors were confirmed on the first day of school when you asked us to memorize our favorite poems and be prepared to discuss why it was our favorite. I still remember The Road Not Taken 20+ years later.

You were intelligent, thought-provoking, and interesting. You asked us questions that forced us to consider opinions and beliefs outside of ourselves. You helped me recognize a deep appreciation for writing. On a personal level, you began to invest in me as a student and friend. Your commitment to my learning, my confidence, and my overall well-being was a testament to your character.

I will never forget the many hours we spent in the classroom and on the school newspaper but mostly I remember how most of us were dedicated because it meant we could share more time with you. You encouraged me to always expect more from myself, to be honest and compassionate when dealing with others, and to use my gifts and talents to make the world a better place. As a student in your classroom, you showed me the impact one teacher can have. Thank you for being the teacher you are and were -- to students who needed you the most.

Even when I was struggling, you encouraged me. When I was confused, you believed in me. When I wanted to give up, you pushed me harder. In your classroom, I learned how to be a student, how to experience success.

Somewhere in the thousand "warm conversations" that you and I shared, you said something that has helped defined who I am as a person. You encouraged my love for reading and writing and that love never left me-I hope to instill that into my children. Every time I pick up a book I think of the man who made me think beyond my teenage years.

Thank You, Mr. Braafladt, for being one of the most challenging teachers that I ever had the chance to learn from.