For many of us, Memorial Day is just the beginning of vacation time. School is finally out, and the sun’s warmth is seeping into our skin, thawing out our bones from the long winter. Yet Memorial Day is primarily a day to remember those great service members who have given their all for their country.
It is important for us to reflect on the impact American soldiers have on our lives. Many people have family, friends, or acquaintances who have sacrificed themselves in service for our country. Their sacrifice will forever be remembered and cherished. Soldiers are not like your average people who are focused on their own superficial satisfaction. They put themselves through grueling trials for their country and countrymen. Their sacrifice and devotion are ultimately what sets them apart.
Although not with their lives, great educators, too, sacrifice for the needs of their students. They go beyond the basic dictates of their job by encouraging and helping students do their best, not only in their assignments, but also in their lives. The teachers that I remember fondly are not the ones who had no time to explain concepts to me; rather, they are the ones who always took the time to work one-on-one with me, who challenged me, and who made me consider what I believed and why I believed it. For example, when I was in high school and participating in a co-op, my teacher noticed that I hadn’t been putting in the effort that he knew I was capable of. Instead of chastising me, he talked to me after class and encouraged me to reach my potential. From my teacher I learned the importance of having a strong work ethic as well as how to graciously handle tough situations.
Teachers have a tremendous impact on the lives of their students. Not only do students learn about different subjects, they also learn values and life lessons. Teachers are able to pass on a deeper understanding of life and an appreciation for it through their devotion and dedication to their students’ success. Their sacrifices will always be remembered by their students.
To love is to sacrifice. Soldiers love their country, so they sacrifice for it. Family members love each other, so they sacrifice for each other. Teachers and parents love their students, so they sacrifice for them. Soldiers and educators both positively change the lives of many through their sacrifices and devotion as they are the ones who clear the path for us to walk on. And we are forever grateful to them both.
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Nick Buscemi has been associated with IEW since childhood when his father began working for the company. This has given him extensive experience with IEW's methods of speaking and writing, having taken many years of classes from Andrew Pudewa. Enjoying communicative interaction, Nick is majoring in Public Relations at the University of Oklahoma. |
