Respect has no “season”
If you have read any of my stuff in the past, you know that I have a great respect for the people that work in our education system. I was raised and influenced by a person that, to me, personifies what a teacher is, my mother Evelyn Mercer. She is not the only one, not in the least. Gladys Sylvester was my piano teacher, Sam Jarman was my little league baseball ‘teacher”, and I have the true honor of friendship with my favorite college professor, Dr. Tom Eamon of East Carolina. Also, Robbie Ellis was my high school football coach and taught me about leadership. The great teachers and coaches that have shaped me will never leave my heart. These people availed themselves to every “student” that availed themselves to them. Such is the nature of a true teacher in it for the right reasons.
Football has begun anew this summer with the advent of the high school ”passing leagues” throughout the state. My sons John and Drew are participating with Jacksonville High School. The coaches that are leading these teams for this “preseason season” are doing it on their own time. Think about that. No pay, just “time and effort”. Most of them are husbands and dads with pressing issues at home. They are building programs and changing lives in the process. True educators. There is nothing that says they have to be out there at this time. They just do it because they love the difference they are making in their players lives. These ballplayers have a tendency, as teenagers will, to take these “teachers” and their time for granted. Coaches are teachers first and foremost, they simply have a sweatier classroom.
Now here is my plea. As parents we must make an effort to recognize these benevolent people that are in charge of our children. How can we do this most effectively? By demanding that our “players” show their coaches the respect they are due, simple as that. Make sure these young folks realize they are accountable, that they are representing more than just themselves. They are representing their family, their church, their school, their friends, their town. These kids are our future. Are we doing our part to enhance it? I submit that most of the coaches and teachers that are giving “beyond themselves” are doing their part.
S
imply re-affirm some common principles before you send your loved one into the fray. Take a ”rudderless” teenager under your wing! “Yes sir” and “no mam” is a good beginning. Looking someone in the eye and being respectful is a foundation to build a better life on. Paying attention and being on time are learned traits. Showing common decency towards people that are giving of their lives to make ours better is smart. Where would we be without them? Someone very special taught you how to read this blog.
Do you have a special ‘teacher’ from the past that you just can’t forget?
Bill,
Thank you, thank you, thank you! The respect issue is a very important one today. Everyone wants it, but not everyone is willing to give it. With these basic principles in place and practiced regularly, more time can be devoted to achieving excellence, whether on the field or in the classroom. That is the reason most educators took on their task; to help and guide young people to be the most outstanding and accomplished adults they can be. Thanks again!
Rene’