Poem Of Gratitude For Teachers

While cleaning out files this weekend, I came across this poem I had written 5 years ago and presented at a conference for early childhood educators. I become more and more thankful for extraordinary teachers as my children grow. Thank you teachers – from early childhood to geriatric care and every phase of life in between!

ODE TO CHILDCARE PROVIDERS, EDUCATORS, AND ALL-AROUND MIRACLE WORKERS

by Christi Hegstad, Ph.D.

When you’re filling out paperwork and it asks for “occupation,”

I think yours may be one of the hardest in the nation

To try to classify in just a word or two.

“Teacher” or “Care Provider” doesn’t do justice to you!

You are child psychologists helping kids work through their troubles,

Creative geniuses mixing volcanic solutions and nontoxic bubbles;

Cooks devising healthy snacks in a way that’s fun to eat,

Leaders teaching skills that make responsibility seem like a treat;

Mind-readers and fortune-tellers predicting moods from day to day,

Energy infusers and calm soothers, knowing just the right words to say.

You’re doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists all rolled into one,

Sharing healthy, lifelong lessons in a way that makes learning fun.

You’re officers and mediators, rule creators and abiders,

Loving arms, tender voices, compassion-and-care providers,

Scientists and optimists, one-on-one communicators,

Listeners, idea fountains, and public orators.

But even more than that, you are people changing the world;

Generous beings impacting us all through our little boys and girls.

You are whole and lovely people with a gift given to only a few;

Thank you for sharing that gift with us. Thank you for all you do!

Copyright (c) 2008 Christi Hegstad, Ph.D.  MAP Professional Development Inc