THERE’S NO PLATITUDE IN GRATITUDE

I came into your class knowing it all,

You greeted me, while I proudly stood tall.

I watched in amazement, your one act play,

You performed perfectly, for me each day.

 

I seemed to always have something to say,

You looked up, as I was about to say.

“I’m caught up with all classwork and homework”,

You asked, if I wished to show all my work.

 

I took my seat, a pop quiz greeted me,

You did not say, but your face said you knew.

I stared at my paper, filled with unknowns,

You called time, asked papers be turned face down.

 

I shared my thoughts with my friends after class,

You walked past me, knowing I did not pass.

I frowned at my grade, then I took a chance,

You listened, as I did my song and dance.

 

I heard you say what you would recommend,

You firmly said, what you say may offend.

I tried to hold back tears, anger and strife,

You stole what was left of my high school life.

 

I welcomed your offer, stayed after school,

You gave your time without losing your cool.

I left, with no choice, but to change today,

You stood by me, showing an improved way.

 

I recalled no matter how hard I tried,

You kept me focused, even when I cried.

I aimed for perfection in every quest,

You explained, all you wanted was my best.

 

I often reflect back to your lectures,

You helped me look past my imperfections.

I felt a slight spark of my light in class,

You showed me how to get the grades to pass.

 

I looked back, when I thought you won the race,

You grinned, as I now shined within your grace.

I completed my final high school days,

You cheerfully hugged me and offered praise.

 

I see the same boy coming to your class,

You saw my future through your looking glass.

I know, I wouldn’t be where I am now,

You did somehow but I still don’t know how.

 

I saw a grown man exit the classroom,

You always mentioned to me, don’t assume,

I finished a college degree or two,

You heard of everything I was up to.

 

I found out, years after graduation,

You rebuilt and reinforced my foundation.

I celebrated my success with you,

You were always the first one I’d run to.

 

I wished, I danced with you on your last dance,

You granted so many, a second chance.

I wished, I sang with you on your last song,

You shared your time, helping others along.

 

I asked for a date with just you and I,

You really wanted to know my why.

I struggled finding the right words to share,

You suggested, I start off with a prayer.

 

I did not want to give more platitude,

You deserved more than just my gratitude.

I hoped to stop by and thank you today,

You questioned me, with what I had to say.

 

I was too busy getting through today,

You guided my tomorrow, yesterday.

I shock everyone, when I say I teach,

You seemed to know; it was within my reach.

 

I delivered my daily assignment,

You arrived tardy, stirring excitement.

I greeted you, like long lost family,

You reciprocated substantially.

 

I saw the hands of time turn back some years,

You taught a lesson, my eyes filled with tears.

I reminisced, being in your classroom,

You told my class, about watching me bloom.

 

I realized now why my students laughed,

You presented what you choreographed.

I started singing and dancing with you,

You gleamed, as I taught my lesson anew.

 

I first heard the calling back in high school,

You reminded me, follow my heart’s rule.

I will be forever in debt to you,

You’re my why, I’m a teacher just like you.