|
Saturday night I received a phone call re-inviting me and that Renee would be on her way to pick me up. Moments later I was sharing the back seat of Renee's car with Carley, and riding up front was Renee's new boyfriend, Jordan. I was able on the way to apologize to Carley for not attending her grad party. We made it to Rachel's house and dinner was served a half-hour later. I was under the impression Jordan had not attended Holmen, but of the six remaining four had been former students and a fifth was scheduled to have me as a teacher had I not been forced out of my position. Stories were told about college and high school. We laughed so hard... it was a fun time. Renee had to get up early the next day though (she said she was making the drive to California in only two days... a rough haul I myself made in 1989). Since she was my ride there, it only made sense she give me a lift back home. She made her goodbyes and thanked everyone there. Renee, Jordan, Carley, and I assumed our positions from earlier. Less than ten minutes later I was home. Renee came out of the car to see me out for one last goodbye. We hugged and I wished her a safe trip. We stood a foot-and-a-half apart, but still held onto each others' arms, staring into each others' eyes. I thanked her for letting me be a part of her life and let her know how much her kindness had meant to me. With that, I finally broke off and watched her drive away. Renee is but one of so many students who've touched me, and if I ever do teach again it will be experiences like mine with her that will make me an even better teacher. Farewell, Renee. |