Being ... just me
Successful at29 total reviews
Comment from Carlos' girl
Just wonderful. You remind me of my father. He taught secondary education and had the respect of his students like you. There are other similarities. I think of the U2 song "Ordinary Love" when I read this. Beautiful
reply by the author on 20-Jul-2022
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Just wonderful. You remind me of my father. He taught secondary education and had the respect of his students like you. There are other similarities. I think of the U2 song "Ordinary Love" when I read this. Beautiful
Comment Written 20-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 20-Jul-2022
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Oh thank you. That would be an honour, to be compared to your father!! I'll look up the song too. Many thanks for the precious six stars. A valued gift!
Wendy
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My father was named Leo M Landgraf. He taught at Christian Brothers High School in St Louis MO. There is a scholarship in his name. I have great respect for teachers like yourself. He also served as assistant principal. It brings back great memories to read your writing
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You would enjoy some of my teaching stories but the have expired. A series starting with tithe school with the birthday box , How to hook them, Surviving Friday afternoons, What on earth just happened? and Let me tell you about Mick. No need to review as they aren?t current, but I think you?d enjoy them. The last one is still current (Dream fulfilled).
Wendy
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You would enjoy some of my teaching stories but the have expired. A series starting with tithe school with the birthday box , How to hook them, Surviving Friday afternoons, What on earth just happened? and Let me tell you about Mick. No need to review as they aren?t current, but I think you?d enjoy them. The last one is still current (Dream fulfilled).
Wendy
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Thank you Wendy. I look forward to reading them.
Judith
Comment from Jumbo J
Hi Wendy,
better late than never... right?
Firstly, love the quote by Brene' Brown.
The thing that sticks out in this write is a woman, mother, grandmother, teacher, Christian, volunteer, who to me, sounds not only extraordinary, but someone with the humility and heart to use that power within a path of love, caring, consideration and respect.
Even when you said you always had delusions, or illusions of being heroic(btw, doesn't need a comma after illusions) and saving someone from danger.
How many students and people have you come upon when you have probably done just that? I know that one particular teacher saved me by being there for me.
Not every 'save' of what is perceived to be heroic comes out of the obvious, yet it should never be played down, nor discarded as just that... and all the people you come in contact with through volunteering, raising money through effort, blood, sweat and possibly a few tears... the disabled child who was gifted into your care for ten years... yes... you my fine woman are very heroic in and through my eyes.
And yes, with you on the dying process... as I've been watching my father deteriorate for the past eight years through Alzheimer's... so no, don't like that thought!
Truly love...
I always want to serve my Master, but often fail, defeated by my very humanness. Oh, aren't we all?
Loved the read Wendy... and a big congratulations on a very deserved win in this contest... one very proud fan/follower here!
With our thoughts we create...
unstoppable impetus.
Kind regards,
James.
reply by the author on 15-Jul-2022
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Hi Wendy,
better late than never... right?
Firstly, love the quote by Brene' Brown.
The thing that sticks out in this write is a woman, mother, grandmother, teacher, Christian, volunteer, who to me, sounds not only extraordinary, but someone with the humility and heart to use that power within a path of love, caring, consideration and respect.
Even when you said you always had delusions, or illusions of being heroic(btw, doesn't need a comma after illusions) and saving someone from danger.
How many students and people have you come upon when you have probably done just that? I know that one particular teacher saved me by being there for me.
Not every 'save' of what is perceived to be heroic comes out of the obvious, yet it should never be played down, nor discarded as just that... and all the people you come in contact with through volunteering, raising money through effort, blood, sweat and possibly a few tears... the disabled child who was gifted into your care for ten years... yes... you my fine woman are very heroic in and through my eyes.
And yes, with you on the dying process... as I've been watching my father deteriorate for the past eight years through Alzheimer's... so no, don't like that thought!
Truly love...
I always want to serve my Master, but often fail, defeated by my very humanness. Oh, aren't we all?
Loved the read Wendy... and a big congratulations on a very deserved win in this contest... one very proud fan/follower here!
With our thoughts we create...
unstoppable impetus.
Kind regards,
James.
Comment Written 14-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 15-Jul-2022
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James, what a review! Each word is greatly encouraging, and greatly appreciated. I feel quite moved. All I ever wanted was to love, serve and follow Jesus and others, and to have a happy (and committed to Him) family. Your words made me feel that He has seen and valued any little thing done for Him, which I know in my head, but now I am feeling it in my heart. Thank you so much for your encouragement - and for the six precious stars, always greatly valued. I felt a bit strange talking about myself in this writing, as it seemed egotistical, but hopefully others will see too that small acts of service make a difference.
Wendy
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I only ever speak my truth... and sometimes that comes out after I have read something that moves me to do so. I would feel remiss If I didn't. I don't think I could have wrote in this contest... as I said I read all the entrants and read how hard it was to keep ego's from running amiss, but yours said it with a very humble tone... and there is a skill and truth in that. I wish everyone received the memo what our time here on earth is about... service. In whatever form that may take. I am not a church going bloke, but I do serve a higher power. I do, and would never knock another's faith, religion, or whatever road they walked... my mission in life is to always strive to be a better human being.
It is always a true pleasure to read and review your post Wendy... I'm all about authenticity, and I know you are also.
Kindest regards,
James.
Comment from Anne Johnston
Congratulations on winning this contest. You have certainly described yourself well. Your writing is always so easy to read, free from typos, and well organized, and informative. Keep writing.
reply by the author on 09-Jul-2022
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Congratulations on winning this contest. You have certainly described yourself well. Your writing is always so easy to read, free from typos, and well organized, and informative. Keep writing.
Comment Written 09-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 09-Jul-2022
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Thank you Anne. That is so encouraging, as I sometimes feel quite drained and that I have reached the end. I also value your congratulations, and the six stars in your review. Certainly a great encouragement, and a gift to me.
Wendy
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You are welcome
Comment from karenina
I have only five stars.... Know there is another in my heart.
Dear Wendy... I see a woman who has been extraordinary! You strive, always, to be compassionate and an you advocated for your foster child and your students... Stepping up when others did not.
Hero? I think so! I've read your stories about teaching! You changed lives...
You cared that much!
Accept that your FanStory family loves the wonderful mixture of you!
Congratulations!!!
That is heartfelt validation!
First place...
Amen!
Karenina
reply by the author on 09-Jul-2022
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I have only five stars.... Know there is another in my heart.
Dear Wendy... I see a woman who has been extraordinary! You strive, always, to be compassionate and an you advocated for your foster child and your students... Stepping up when others did not.
Hero? I think so! I've read your stories about teaching! You changed lives...
You cared that much!
Accept that your FanStory family loves the wonderful mixture of you!
Congratulations!!!
That is heartfelt validation!
First place...
Amen!
Karenina
Comment Written 09-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 09-Jul-2022
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Thank you Karenina. It was a strange contest, trying to think of who I really am. Separating the "being" from the "doing". My parents only validated success in terms of doing and achieving, not from who one is as a person, so I think I am really still trying to work myself out, and overcome a lot of insecurities. Perhaps that's why I related to my teenagers. Your very kind and encouraging review, and congratulations, mean a great deal to me.
Wendy
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My parents were the same!!!
Comment from John Ciarmello
This is an exceptional piece, Wendy. It is honest and refreshing, and your life niche is the children you've taught over the years. Accomplishments come in small drips of life, only noticeable when enough has puddled on the floor. I enjoyed this read. Congrats on your win!
reply by the author on 08-Jul-2022
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This is an exceptional piece, Wendy. It is honest and refreshing, and your life niche is the children you've taught over the years. Accomplishments come in small drips of life, only noticeable when enough has puddled on the floor. I enjoyed this read. Congrats on your win!
Comment Written 08-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 08-Jul-2022
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Oh that is a great image. and quite apt. Little things that one doesn't notice at first, can in fact become a bigger thing. Hopefully not a plumbing disaster! Lol. Many thanks, for your kind words, and your congratulations. All are appreciated.
Wendy
Wendy
Comment from joann r romei
You mmdid a marvelous job describing yourself, and it seems you have accomplished a lot, fostering children is something special, and takes a special person to do it,
reply by the author on 08-Jul-2022
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You mmdid a marvelous job describing yourself, and it seems you have accomplished a lot, fostering children is something special, and takes a special person to do it,
Comment Written 07-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 08-Jul-2022
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Thank you very much Joann. I appreciate your very encouraging words.
Wendy
Comment from LisaMay
You have elevated being 'ordinary' into having extraordinary impact on many other lives - your family (including Sunny of course), your students, your community.
Your appraisal of yourself shows humility and self awareness, and reveals a complex dichotomy of perception and actions. Those who serve the Master always have His strength and guidance in their lives. Being human is hard. Your last paragraph is a wonderful summary.
reply by the author on 07-Jul-2022
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You have elevated being 'ordinary' into having extraordinary impact on many other lives - your family (including Sunny of course), your students, your community.
Your appraisal of yourself shows humility and self awareness, and reveals a complex dichotomy of perception and actions. Those who serve the Master always have His strength and guidance in their lives. Being human is hard. Your last paragraph is a wonderful summary.
Comment Written 07-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 07-Jul-2022
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Thank you Jenny. What an insightful review. And I think it's better to be ordinary, and yet do a few special things, rather than be an "extraordinary" person (as some count themselves) who only does ordinary things. I count your relationship with Andrew as similarly very special. Thanks so much for reviewing. Greatly encouraging words.
Wendy
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I was conscious of making an opinion about someone else's opinion of themselves... a bit tricky.
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Yes. I felt a bit embarrassed about even entering. Who cares what I'm like? And there's always the element or being realistic, and honest and not skiting. In the end it was $2 and there were only two other entries at that time, so I thought I would help it get to the required five for voting. All my faults are left unreported. Lol.
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Best to keep our failings to ourselves, haha.
Comment from GARY MACLEAN
Don't be puzzled. To be a successful and accepted teacher, in my opinion, is the epitome of vocations. If you were able to achieve the lofty goal of transferring knowledge from your own experiences and wisdom to the minds of scatter-brained teenagers, then you have achieved the best there is to offer.
I almost wrote an observation for (realise) then I realized you are from Australia, and that is the way you spell the word "down under.' I'm still learning the differences between UK/Ausy spellings, I'm getting there.
Para 7, 1st sentence: (kilometres) should be (kilometers)
Para 7, 3rd sentence: (gruelling) should be (grueling)
I don't think either of the two observations from Para 7 are due to spelling differences between us. If I am wrong, please let me know. At any rate, this paper is so good those two observations didn't change my rating anyway.
Para 8, 4th sentence: Remove comma after (death)
You have no idea how many lives you heroically saved from what may have otherwise been a totally unfulfilled existence for them; simply by giving them the instruction and guidance they so desperately needed at that perfect time of their life. Don't ever let anyone take anything away from your accomplishments. You have met your goal and more.
Very nice closing paragraph.
reply by the author on 07-Jul-2022
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Don't be puzzled. To be a successful and accepted teacher, in my opinion, is the epitome of vocations. If you were able to achieve the lofty goal of transferring knowledge from your own experiences and wisdom to the minds of scatter-brained teenagers, then you have achieved the best there is to offer.
I almost wrote an observation for (realise) then I realized you are from Australia, and that is the way you spell the word "down under.' I'm still learning the differences between UK/Ausy spellings, I'm getting there.
Para 7, 1st sentence: (kilometres) should be (kilometers)
Para 7, 3rd sentence: (gruelling) should be (grueling)
I don't think either of the two observations from Para 7 are due to spelling differences between us. If I am wrong, please let me know. At any rate, this paper is so good those two observations didn't change my rating anyway.
Para 8, 4th sentence: Remove comma after (death)
You have no idea how many lives you heroically saved from what may have otherwise been a totally unfulfilled existence for them; simply by giving them the instruction and guidance they so desperately needed at that perfect time of their life. Don't ever let anyone take anything away from your accomplishments. You have met your goal and more.
Very nice closing paragraph.
Comment Written 07-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 07-Jul-2022
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Thank you Gary for a very encouraging and thoughtful review - and also for the six shining stars. Always valued!
Yes, those words in Paragraph 7 are correct for Australian and British spelling. Any compound word from "metre", eg "centimetre", "kilometre" has this form of spelling, similar to the difference between British/Australian spelling for "centre" (your "center"); we also usually double the final consonant before adding "ing" in words such as "gruelling". I was always good at spelling, but I did double-check on-line to make sure. I'll have to teach you to spell like an Aussie. Lol. Just kidding.
Thank you again for your very kind review and rating!
Wendy
Comment from Annmuma
I love it!! You have done an excellent job in describing how you see yourself and I'm betting you are so transparent that your description is also how others see you! Great work and good luck in the contest. ann
reply by the author on 08-Jul-2022
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I love it!! You have done an excellent job in describing how you see yourself and I'm betting you are so transparent that your description is also how others see you! Great work and good luck in the contest. ann
Comment Written 07-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 08-Jul-2022
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Thank you so much. Of course I didn't share all my faults and insecurities so in real life people may well see those first! Lol.
I appreciate your lovely review, very encouraging!
Wendy
Comment from Pantygynt
A remarkable piece of self examination. Never having met you in the flesh I cannot comment on its accuracy but that you are happy to expose your innermost thoughts to public scrutiny is enough to mark you out as a pretty honest person. Your thoughts on death and dying coincide with mind. Like you I fear the dying process - it could be painful but death itself. No that does not worry me.
reply by the author on 06-Jul-2022
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A remarkable piece of self examination. Never having met you in the flesh I cannot comment on its accuracy but that you are happy to expose your innermost thoughts to public scrutiny is enough to mark you out as a pretty honest person. Your thoughts on death and dying coincide with mind. Like you I fear the dying process - it could be painful but death itself. No that does not worry me.
Comment Written 06-Jul-2022
reply by the author on 06-Jul-2022
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Thank you for reviewing. Honest - yes, I try to be, but in 500 words maximum, should I have included more of my faults? Every piece of writing is only a snap-shot, one tiny self-exposure, and one is writing for an audience. So there is restraint as well as honesty. I don't even know myself fully .... Many thanks for your thoughtful (and thought-provoking) review.
Wendy