Some of My Favorite Gifts, Part 1

Last August, as I began work at a new school, one of my former students came to visit, and she brought me this orchid.

Alexa is one of my most successful former students. She came from an immigrant family that spoke limited English, but she has a great amount of personal drive. She's worked hard, and is now in a joint bachelors/MD program.

I taught Alexa when she was in 6th grade. She continued to keep in touch with me, returning throughout

her high school years to let me know how she was doing, and occasionally to get advice on papers she was writing. I had the honor of writing recommendations for her a few times. But I can't claim any credit for her successes. She's worked hard and earned everything she's received in life.

What makes this orchid so special is that she was willing to drive way out in to the country to give it to me. That was a big effort, and I appreciated it. The orchid she left me is a continual reminder that what I do is important. Not many of my students will be like Alexa, but there are plenty who are listening to what I say, and will take what little I can give and grow it into a good career and a good life. Even though the flowers have faded and grown papery, it continues to remind me that students who have a strong foundation can grow into something beautiful and lasting.

Thank you, Alexa, for the reminder, and for the inspiration of your life.