The other day I got a call from a former student of mine and a member of my soccer team. His name is Bob Fox and he graduated North Shore H.S. in 1960. He lives in Connecticut and is a very successful college professor. He happened to be in Florida yesterday on business or whatever and he said he would like to see me. I was amazed that after 48 years he remembered me. I can't remember any of my teachers from high school. They made no impression on me whatever. Anyway, we did get together at a local indoor flea market. He had some iced tea and I nursed a diet coke as we sat and discussed way back when, and how his life has gone. Bob was very short back in high school, but now he's 5'10"--he has sons who are taller. Bob wasn't treated very well by his schoolmates and he was known--according to him--as "dummy." In a number of ways his life since then has paralleled mine in that he was not expected to get through college--but I saw him differently. I knew what he had inside. Yesterday I reminded him to demand of his students ruthless personal standards of excellence. Bob recognized me as I drove up, but of course I could not recognize a 17 year old who was now 65. Bob is the only 65 year old I've ever met who looks like 45. Unbelievable. And, of course, I was flattered that he wanted to see me again. As we parted, he said I was a "giant". (I should have told him I'm a Marlin fan). Well, anyway, at least I have, in his eyes, a reputation.
"Strive for excellence, exceed yourself, love your friends, speak the truth, practice fidelity and honor your father and mother. These principles will help you master yourself, make you strong, give you hope and put you on the path to greatness."
1 comment:
What a wonderful visit. I sure am fortunate to have you as my father (and, I honor you!) That end quote is lovely -- is it yours or where's it from??
Post a Comment