(Entry for the My Favorite Teacher Poetry Contest, submitted September 12, 2024 - Fourth Place)
The greatest teacher I have ever known never worked in a classroom. He was an actor and radio announcer of some renown. A man of many talents, I'd assume. He directed me once when I was acting in a play, and he'd let me know - right away! - if he didn't like the way I'd say a certain line (sometimes to my dismay!) He taught me the value of silence and being still. Economy of movement was an important skill that I needed to learn and although he was not shrill in his criticism he could be very stern, never the kind to use witticism to make a point. Indeed, his best instructions were often unvoiced. My performance in that comic play turned out quite successfully, and to this very day it is still a fond memory. In all my years in theatre he gave to me the greatest education. Eventually, I'd realize that under his tutelage I learned much about dedication to the craft of acting, reacting and interacting. I learned that it's all about communication, and though he is long gone, I remember him fondly, with great appreciation. Thank you, Denys.
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