My fourth-grade teacher approached me and asked if I would be willing to sing a song for the end-of-the-year party in our class. I said sure and started to learn the piece. I believe “Oh my darling Clementine”.
What was unusual was that the class walked to his house and he started to play the organ. Teachers were allowed to do something to make the end-of-year event something special and since he lived within walking distance of the school this was his way to give us a treat.
My classmates were so surprised when I sang along with his organ playing. They seemed to enjoy it and we had cake and treats afterward and then went back to class.
I remember this teacher well because he helped me learn to apologize when I made a mistake and he always let me do extra things that the other kids didn’t do. For example, I didn’t like the hot sun, so during recess, I was working on a mural for the classroom depending on the season. He said that I did a great job and it helped me strengthen my artistic skills.
In your life, you meet some people who seem to appreciate you and help you become a better person. I have been so fortunate that I have had many mentors in my life.