As the Twig is Bent, So Grows the Tree

That is a proverb meaning that early experiences and influences profoundly shape a person’s character, habits, and future life, much like bending a young sapling dictates the direction of the mature tree. Attributed to 18th-century poet Alexander Pope, it highlights the lasting impact of childhood education, environment, and formative moments, suggesting that initial guidance sets the course for adulthood.

It is probably fair to say that parents have the most influence on a child’s development, but I would argue that schoolteachers are not far behind in the twig bending. In my humble opinion, teachers are, and always have been, underpaid and underappreciated. Imagine where humanity would be without good teachers!

Now, as I near the conclusion of my life’s journey, I still look back and remember things that my teachers taught me that had a profound influence on my actions.

For example, one of my high school teachers and baseball coach, Bill Briggs, as I played second base, taught me to ask, “If the ball comes to me, what will I do with it?” In other words, plan ahead, be prepared. Good advice for fielding grounders or any of life’s other “curve balls.” Bill and I are still in touch.

Mrs. Joy Wilson taught me better writing and gave me appreciation for the performing arts with her many field trips to theaters. Mrs. Wilson always stood up for her students. Plus, she had a daughter and two nephews in my class. We had to behave!

Denver Leinonen nurtured my love of history, public affairs and public service. And became a valued friend.

I could recount many, many more examples but you get the picture.

As I said, I think teachers are underappreciated and underpaid. So why would anyone choose teaching as a profession?

Retired teacher, Tim Juhl, told me, “My mother was a teacher. I was always interested in science, and what really inspired me was Joe Pullen, biology teacher at Almont High School. He was so engaging – everything I wanted to be. From that point on my goal was to teach biology and chemistry, which I did for 34 years at Carsonville-Port Sanilac Schools.” His wife, Joan, was also a teacher.

Judy Kefgen said, “I felt teaching high school was my niche. I would do it all over again. Among other things, I taught public speaking. Most of the kids would walk in very skittish at the beginning of the semester; however, at the end of the class, after lots of experimentation, laughing, learning the tricks of the trade, practicing and growing confident, they walked away with smiles on their faces and more confidence in their step.” Judy’s husband, Bruce (my college roommate) was also a teacher and superintendent.

Bill Briggs, taught math, coached football and basketball, was athletic director and eventually became a school principal and superintendent. “I enjoyed most the teaching and coaching. I was close to the kids at that time. Being an administrator, you were not that close to kids, and I missed it.”

Was teaching rewarding?

Juhl: “My favorite thing about teaching was seeing a kid’s eyes light up when they succeeded in learning a difficult subject or performing a challenging task. I can proudly point to doctors, lawyers, cancer researchers, commercial and military pilots, teachers, professionals along with countless other hardworking folks as students. I am proud of the small part I played in helping them on their way.”

Kefgen: “The most rewarding part of teaching was having my students come back and thank me for ‘making a difference in their lives’ after they left high school and entered college, the military, or the workforce.”

Briggs: “I had many memorable students. I still have contact with some of them including yourself. I really appreciate it.”

So, all of us twigs who were bent by our teachers need to thank them for their efforts. We wouldn’t be who we are without them. And thank you to all current and future teachers. You are shaping tomorrow’s trees and we are grateful.

Contact Rick at tct@pageone-inc.com