Compassion

         I would like to tell you about one person in my life that has shown the greatest amount of compassion. She is a not only a teacher, but a mentor and friend. You don't often come across a woman like this one. I consider my self lucky and most of all honored to know her. Here is my story of the incredible woman, Joanna Walters.

         I have known Joanna since I was a toddler at ABC Daycare. I made my living as a 4-year-old by charging 25 cents to give her back-rubs while watching Arthur and The Magic School Bus. Although I do not remember much about then, I do remember our special connection, even at my young age. A few times, she brought in her violin to play and to show us. I remember thinking that I was so cool because I played the violin too. I was the kid constantly raising my hand to answer questions that she asked.
         Soon after I started school at Lowell Elementary, Joanna got a job there as the orchestra teacher. Kindergarten-6th grade, I got to know her even better. I don't know what is was but I always felt so comfortable with her and felt that I could tell her anything, which is very important to young student. Maybe it was her kind, funny, and beautiful personality. Or maybe it was how supportive she was of all her students. She always brought the best out in them. A group of my orchestra friends and I grew very close to each other as well as to Joanna during out time at Lowell.  After 6th grade we moved to a different school, which also meant a different orchestra teacher. I was pretty nervous about this. I did not see her as much and therefore kind of grew apart from her. It wasn't anything bad, we just both went to different places.
         I believe this next part was fate...
         At the end of 8th grade I found out that she was going to teach at the high school that I was going to. I was actually quite nervous for this. I was not sure what she would think or if she would be the same person. Well, she was the same person. When I entered high school, it was as if we had never spent 2 years in different schools. Throughout my 4 years at Central High School, I was able to watch how she interacted with her colleagues and her students. I admired at the way she handled situations so professionally but with so much care and class. Joanna takes time for everyone of her students when they need it. She is hard working and never gives up.
         Another thing is that she not only teaches her students music, but she teaches them to be good human beings. She relates to her students and tries to understand each and every one. Joanna respects them. This is why so many of her students respect her in return.
         Joanna helped me become the woman I am today because of her compassion for people and her passion for music and life. She is one of the main reasons that I wanted to become a music teacher. I saw how joyful and fulfilling it made her life, even through the tough times, and I wanted the same thing.
        There are not enough words or actions that can express how much she means to me. and the wonderful woman that she is. I love you Mrs. Walters!<3