Oh, the Places...

Many, many years ago I sat in a fourth grade classroom listening to Greek mythology from the most amazing teacher, Mrs. Templeton. I was fascinated by her stories, mesmerized by her tone, and inspired by her example. I don't remember the spelling lessons or the math problems, but I'm sure there were plenty. She taught me to be creative. She taught me that there were no limits other than the ones I set for myself. She taught me that anything was possible. 

I never thought in a million years I would get the opportunity to sit in her living room, all grown up, and thank her. But today I did just that. 

It's been no secret that I've given the credit of inspiration to her all these years. I was interviewed for a newspaper article a few months ago and the topic came up once more. Naturally, I credited Mrs. Templeton as the true inspiration of my life. Her and her daughter read the paper, put two and two together, and contacted the journalist. It didn't take long for us to begin corresponding via e-mail. It did, however, take a little while for us to find time to meet face-to-face. 

I was nervous, to say the least. I mean, come on...seeing your fourth grade teacher after all these years! Who does that? But her and her lovely daughter, Diane, were so welcoming, so kind. I felt at home immediately and the hours ticked away as we discussed numerous topics, all of which we found to have in common. It was like I fit right in to their family and I was honored to be there. 

Mrs. Templeton is now 91 years old. That's right...91! She's still as wonderful as I remember her some thirty-five years ago. Even more so, now that I'm not a starry eyed nine year old. I can't wait for my daughter to meet her and for our lives to intertwine for years to come.