I missed Jeanette’s funeral.

I was very sad to not have been able to show my respects. 

It would help if I read the newspaper.

I cannot read or watch the news.  I cannot handle it.  I rely on my man to let me know what I need to know and occasionally do I indulge a story I see linked on Facebook.

But that’s it.

I suppose this situation is a reason why that is not always a good plan.

Either way, I “happened” to see a mother/son team who comes to Fall Avoidance at the gas station yesterday.   I rolled down the window and we chatted while he pumped gas.  He said they had just been to Jeanette’s service. 

Oh, man.

He mentioned a couple of other ladies from our class had asked where I was.

How disappointing to not have been there and shown what respect I had for her.

Since I didn’t make it there with my presence, I will do it on here with my words.

Jeanette made me a better teacher.  She regularly pointed out that some participants weren’t ready for some of the exercises I was having them do.  She reminded me that the job of a good teacher is to adapt the class to differing levels of ability.

Jeanette pointed out the strengths of other teachers.  The co-worker that I see as a mentor teacher to me subbed for the class sometimes.  When I would ask how it went at the next class, Jeanette would always be kind and point out how she’s “a pro.”

But you know what?  I doubt she ever said that to this teacher’s face.  She appreciates quality, and felt it was more her job when she was with you to encourage you in areas you can grow.

There is something so crucial to that kind of person.  We want to please them.  They make us hold ourselves to a higher standard.  Their voice can get in our head – in a good way – making us ask the difficult questions about the path we’re heading down.

I want her to know how deeply I respect her.

I am grateful the mother/son team let me have their extra bulletin for the funeral.  It will go in my chest.

I never want to forget the lessons she taught me.