To My English Teacher

At an approximate distance of 2 benches, you stood there, every day explaining how two negatives makes a positive. I remember, that day, ages ago, when you told me that I was special, and I knew you meant it. I know you'll mean it even now because I believe in you. That very same day, my best friend and I sat on the extreme left row and waited for you to enter. I remember the look on your face when you saw that in a class of 60 students, there were only 2. I remember the anger, the agony and peace. I see your face in my dreams sometimes and when I do, I see peace. Peace in your eyes, smile on your face and words, so many words. I remember how you waited outside our exam hall to wish us good luck and I know you don't know this, but I really needed that. I've never told you this, but the majority of my life seems wasted, but that one moment is what covers up for it. I don't want to tell you what all you taught that have made a huge difference in my life, but I really want you to know that what I've achieved, yet, is less of me and more of you. You were supposed to teach us a language, correct our grammar, give us essays and yet you taught us virtue, morals, taking responsibility and I owe all of my ideals to you. While we were being taught about calculus and accounts, you were teaching us how to be a human being. I've never had an epiphany like this before, but today that I'm standing between what is right and what is correct has made me realize what you meant when you said “we make our choices based on what standards we set for ourselves.” This one time, the last time that we met, you looked at me while crossing the road and smiled. At that moment I realized that I didn't need anything from you, just the fact that you recognized me was enough affirmation and I shall cherish it all my life. I don't think I'll ever have the courage to send this to you, but I really hope that you change the life of many vagrants as you once did mine. Love, M