An Open Letter to My Seniors

It's tough when you have so many things that you would like to say, but you know that trying to say them in class would leave you a blubbering mess.  And so, as a way to express my gratitude for the past four years, an open letter...

Dear Seniors,

I distinctly remember, 4 years ago, when I was "warned" about the incoming freshmen class.  And while I do my best to tune out those "warnings", I'll admit that I walked into freshman World History with some trepidation.  4 years later I can see that most of those warnings were bunk.  For many of you, it's been four years of work together.  Others three, some just a semester.  I'm not sure it matters, because after 13 years of teaching (and 36 years of life) it is clear that it's rarely the length of time in which you've known someone that matters, it's the impact made in the time you've had.  

You'd think, after 13 years, that I would stop being surprised at the impact that my students have on me.  But even now I remain shocked at how much I owe to so many of you.  You have challenged me to think outside of the box with how I plan my lessons and my classes.  You have forced me to toss "tried and true" lessons in favor of what will work best for the students, which should always be my mission.  You have brought up so many great points in conversation that have forced me to reevaluate my own point of view.  On countless occasions I have worried for you, I have shared tears with you, I have listened to incredible accomplishments with you...and each of these have made me a better father to my own children.

When I think of this class, those warnings from four years ago seem empty, replaced with thoughts of great potential.  When I think of this class, I think of loyalty, a great capacity for love, an eagerness to be respected, and, when given the chance, a tremendous potential for leadership and constructive dialogue, two things which this country needs now more than ever.

With all this said, as you begin the next chapter of your life, understand that some big decisions await you.  Some of these decisions are going to work out; some won’t.  Regrets are sure to come along the next path to follow, and I hope that you will see that regrets can simply be the result of risks taken and battles lost, which are not always bad experiences.  We often don’t learn from winning, but we can always learn from losing.  And since life is about learning, take advantage of every opportunity to experience it to the fullest, whatever the results.  Look back at your time here fondly, but move forward with boldness.  "What" and "If" are two of the least threatening words in the English language...but when put together, they represent opportunities lost, and that is dangerous.

It has been an honor, a true honor, to have worked with you, and as you approach the next mile on the journey I hope that you will remember that my help and advice is but an email, DM, or call away.  I would say good luck on the next step, but that implies that you will need to count on luck to succeed in your dreams.  Instead I will say...good living!

Gratefully Your Teacher,

Mr. Cline