Maya said it best.

‎"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." 

- Maya Angelou

Motherhood has made me a better teacher. I now see each of my students for who they really are--someone's baby. I love them differently--better. I love them in the way that I would want Klara's future teachers to love her. I can't be with my baby during the day, but I can use this new, powerful instinct for good.

I was reading her analysis of the story, and her words caused me to slow down. They were insightful; I recognized a depth of thought in her answers that was absent from the other students' work. I was ashamed that I was surprised when I glanced up at the name. She's that sweet, quiet, English Learner--the one with the low "F." Why did I expect any less from her before this moment? I scribbled, "See me after class. Let's chat about your grade" on the top of her paper.

She cautiously walked up to me at the end of class, holding her paper with my writing at the top up for me to see--like a puppy that had just been scolded. I said, "The reason I wanted to talk to you is because I was so impressed by your answers. They were so insightful. You obviously have some really good things to say." She shook her head and tears welled in her eyes.

"I'm looking forward to reading your essay when you turn it in tomorrow. Seriously. You obviously have some good insights." She cracked a smile and nodded. "After you get over the hump of finishing your essay, can we talk about some of your make-up work? I really want to see your grade reflect this great work you can turn in." She nodded.

Maybe she won't turn in her essay after all, but, then again, maybe she will. Hope springs eternal.

I was reminded that, sometimes, a kid just needs to hear, "You're on the right track. I'm proud of you." How could I forget that? When did I become that calloused?