This tree showed its buds at the beginning of summer and has enjoyed several months of life. It is ironic that as leaves begin to fall, a new bud forms. This bud is formed in the minds of my students. The first day of school sprouts signs of new growth, like a tree in spring. My job is to nurture, prune, and water these future leaders. Soon they will take root in the enriching nutrients of care, respect, and knowledge found in my classroom. My hope is that they grow into mighty oaks and reach to the heavens. (Psalm 119: 7)

Today I begin my 9th year of teaching.