Many years ago, in a small town named Smithville, in a small middle school class room, a young impressionable girl was given a gift from God in the form of a wonderful teacher name Jacqueline Smith. Little did I know or realize at that time, that the living example God put in front of me would prove to be a lasting influence on my life. Her kind heart, professional manner, gentle discipline and effective teaching helped to open a child’s mind to a world beyond that small town and classroom. I have been writing professionally and personally for many years, have led many group sessions and have sung on many stages and one of the recurring complements I receive in these endeavors, is how well I express thoughts and ideas; this, I now know, is due in part to some of the past teachings of Mrs. Smith. A few years ago, while in a writing session, I became stuck in thought and strangely I heard Mrs. Smith’s voice saying, "learn to express your thoughts". Sitting there in silence, I began to examine why her voice came to mind. Upon further exploration, I remembered she used to say that during our class sessions. I realized that the model she set in front of me had not only influenced the use of good speech, but my decision to attend and graduate from college, and carry myself like a lady. As those thoughts made me smile, I thanked God and was moved to write and convey how much I appreciate what she had contributed to my life. I immediately wrote the letter out on paper with the intention of typing it later and mailing it; but, as life took over and I lost thought of the letter, a few years had passed. Recently, while cleaning up my office, I came across the hand written letter from years ago and put it on the top of my desk to finish the long, overdue thank you; but life, once again, took over and sent me last week to Alexandria TN to attend a funeral; it was there that I had an opportunity to talk to Mrs. Smith. I thanked her for the example she set, what she taught me about the importance of words and I told her about this letter. In her humbleness, she graciously accepted my thanks and said, "You never know if what you do will ever reach anyone". Let me say publicly Mrs. Smith, it did! And although she has moved beyond the classroom to other areas of service to the community, she continues to positively touch many lives. With the recent recognized celebration of Teachers week, I salute all teachers who teach in the spirit and manner of Mrs. Smith; saying, that what you do is a valuable service that continues far beyond the class room. Thank you again, Mrs. Jacqueline Smith.
With love and respect,
Shirley E. Tubbs Rutland
June 1, 2015
