Through time and space...
- Deb Dekoff
- Dec 8, 2016
- 3 min read
Over the past few months, I've received a plethora of messages from people all over the world.
Some offer words of encouragement. Some offer thoughts on alternative treatments. Some tell of the travails of dealing with their own cancers. Some tell of the tribulations - the test of strength, courage, during their treatments or that of family members. Some ask if they can share a post. (Yes.)
Other messages are sent on scraps of paper, a note on an index card, delivered by a parent. (Thank you, Serena!) These notes are from current students, wishing me well, hoping I'll "come back soon" because they "miss the jokes" and they miss "the stories". These make me smile, as I've had such little time with this new group this school year that I didn't feel as though I've made an impression. After all, they've had substitute teachers more days then they've had me.
And sometimes, the note is from a former student...
Years - even decades can go by, and through social media, a hand and heart reaches out through time to offer more than just words...
A piece of me is missing too....and that piece is you. While I am sorry that years have passed since we reconnected, I am blessed because when we connect via FB or email or phone, it's as if time has stood still all these years with feelings unchanged. You are THE hero in my story......you are the teacher you are asking me to reach out to. There is so much truth in your post....for me...you played many roles....teacher, listener, counselor, comforter, confidant, friend but most importantly you taught me lessons that were not to be found in a text book or math problem or prefix of a word. You taught me the meaning of the most precious gift of all....love. You loved me, cared for me and showed me a compassion I had never known. For me, a young, troubled girl, you were my refuge, my safe place. I could NEVER repay you for the kindness you've shown or for opening your heart so big and wide for such a reserved, withdrawn, and broken child. Even after all these years, there are so many things left unsaid...i feel sometimes it's like trying to purchase something that's not for sale. I can say this however......you, a beautiful, caring and loving teacher...you .were.MY.saving.grace.....no doubt about it. I love you and keep a special place for you in my heart always, always remember that! Te quiero mucho!
Veronica
(Veronica was my student over 30 years ago.)
Or this one:
Dear Mrs. Dekoff,
I just wanted to know how you are doing. I'm am really worried about you. I want you to be keep up the strong work. You are a warrior. I know how your husband and sons are feeling. My family going through the exact same feeling as they are. Especially my mom. He (Grandfather) has cancer of prostate. He has has been going to chemotherapies. His hair has fallen but he would rather get well than loose hair. He says it'll grow back. Her mom also has a ball in her breast. The doctors are studying it to see if it can be harmful. They also say that probably if it keeps growing and they don't take care of it it can become cancer. But I know you and my grandparents are going to become healthy like you were before. Every time I talk to you I know I can trust you. I can always tell you what I feel. You are a third mother to me.
With Lots of Love,
J
Continued...
Mrs. Dekoff-
My grandma and grandpa live in La Huacana, Michoacan, Mexico but I don't know where they go for their treatments.
I said "you are a third mother to me" because that's the truth. You always ask me how I'm doing and how I feel. I can always confide in you.
Just to let you know I'm doing great in school. Thanks for believing in me on going to Stanford.
(J was my student just last year.)
Reach out today to someone who made an impression in your life. A few words strung together into sentences expressing a sentiment mean a lot.
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