A Long Awaited Thank You

When I was young and in Jr. High I had this teacher who would take jabs at me. She’d catch me looking at the clock, and for the whole class to see. She’d comment things like time will pass but what about you? Little things like this she would always do. She made me feel like I was no good. Till she explained one day the best she could. She said I know you can do so much more, but I have to push you to make you give. She said apply yourself don’t let your life become a sieve. I didn’t understand just right away. Those prophetic words she gave to me that long ago day. Now that I’m old and she’s no longer here. Those words keep whispering into my ear. Now I thank her for what she did. She saw something in me though I was just a kid. She said it’s a little thing called discipline. Just close your mouth and listen in. She was right and now I see. I thank you ma’am for your faith in me. She said always hitch your wagon to a star. Believe in yourself and who you are. This poem is for her and her encouraging words. You got my attention and yes I heard.