They Ask Me Why I Teach

They ask me why I teach,

And I reply,

"Where could I find more splendid company?

There sits a statesman,

Strong, unbiased, wise,

Another later Webster,

Silver-tongued,

And there a doctor

Whose quick, steady hand

Can mend a bone,

Or stem the lifeblood’s flow.

A builder sits beside him-

Upward rise

The arches of a church he builds, wherein

That minister will speak the word of God,

And lead a stumbling soul to touch the Christ.

And all about

A lesser gathering

Of farmer, merchants, teachers,

Labourers, men

Who work and vote and build

And plan and pray

Into a great tomorrow

And I say,

I may not see the church,

Or hear the word,

Or eat the food their hands will grow.

And yet – I may.

And later I may say,

“I knew the lad,

And he was strong,

Or weak, or kind, or proud,

Or bold, or gay.

I knew him once,

But then he was a boy.

They ask me why I teach, and I reply,

Where could I find more splendid company?"

Why do you teach?

Please share your inspiring stories with Tulip Canada. You inspire students from the days before today, and those in your classroom, gazing attentively as you teach, engage and share a bit of yourself, your knowledge and hope for tomorrow.

They Ask Me Why I Teach,” by poet Glennice L. Harmon, in National Education Association (NAE), Journal 37, no. 1 (September 1948). The image provided is the depiction of the teacher who inspired the poet was also provided by the NAE.

Lori Ann Comeau is a career coach for the education profession, founder and president of Tulip Canada, offering a boutique of recruitment services to support both the education community and the profession. Follow her on twitter at @tulipcanada or Facebook.

It's September! Welcome Back!

As the summer season draws to a close, the energy from play to work mode is in the air.   Some may be entering a classroom as a student or teacher, some may grab hold of a school door either as a parent or administrator. September represents a fresh start.  It may be a time of change, hope and new directions and even, new adventures.

Students of life, we are! This month, we can consider how our goals are on track, with the possibility of redefining them or refocusing our efforts to see results.   It’s time to bring balance to the carefree days of summer. Savour them and find a way to be in the moment while working hard to achieve those goals and dreams.

Mistakes are part of life,  Be in acceptance of these mistakes. Embrace these lessons and experiences! It helps gain insight, grow and courage personal development.   Stay true to yourself. Don’t give up and enjoy each day with its blessings, achievements and laughter!  Buckle down with peace in your heart. Embrace the beauty of each day, remembering:

No doubt.  Only dreams.

See the Potential Within.

Be Real.

Small Acts.  Daily Achievements.

Smile!

Work Hard!

Do Your Best.

Be Kind.

Appreciate Time!

Believe You Can Do It!

Love Yourself!

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If you wish Tulip Canada to support your recruitment goals, join us.  We will work together to achieve a common goal to educate with dedication, compassion and respect.   If you wish Tulip Canada to help you find your next teaching adventure, we are here to help! We coach! We cheer!

Lori Ann Comeau is a career coach for the education profession, founder and president of Tulip Canada, offering a boutique of recruitment services to support both the education community and the profession. Follow her on twitter at @tulipcanada or Facebook.