Hi,

To start, part of me hopes that you'll see this and know I'm talking about you. Another part of me hopes that you will never see this. That's beside the point because I'm writing this for my own sake.

See also: An Open Letter To The Teacher Who Changed My Life

You didn't, or maybe still don't, believe in me. Sure, you used flowery language that made me feel like maybe you supported me fully, but soon I began to see the doubt in your eyes. You didn't believe in me as a student or as a person, calling into question the substance of my character. I won't lie, that hurt more than I can tell you. I think about some of those harsh words a lot — they follow me in my daily life and probably always will. They used to haunt me, making me question every aspect of myself. After a long time of self reflection, I see those unkind words in a new light. Now those words push me to be my best self.

Because of the harsh and unfair criticism you handed to me, I found a whole new side of myself that I never knew was inside of me. My heart opened to my friends fully, allowing them to see my vulnerable side. My relationship with my mom became fully realized, opening the door for adult conversations. I found a fire within myself that had been hidden from me before. Even though you were trying to break me, it really only made me stronger.

See also: An Open Letter To My Mom

You did break me, but only for a time. I'm standing here today as a young woman who is strong and fierce. If not for your words, I might not be who I am now. I want you to know how you made me feel. I want you to understand. I want to say thank you.

Thank you for teaching me one of the most valuable lessons a teacher can offer. You taught me how to endure through the tough parts of life, the parts of life that make you want to give up entirely. While most teachers will offer this lesson by holding a hand and saying "it gets better," you did one better. You became that part of life that made me want to give up.

I really do mean this thank you sincerely. I genuinely think that I have learned much of what I know about this world from you. I wish that I could have learned under kinder circumstances, but I'm grateful for this experience.

A smaller part of this, although undoubtedly an important part, is my conscience. I am sorry for whatever I did to inspire such distaste. I can assure you that it wasn't my intention to hurt or disrespect you. That being said, I wouldn't change a single thing and I have no regrets. I am sorry if I've ever hurt you. Know that I didn't mean it.

Because of you, I am a better friend, a more understanding sister, a more caring daughter. You led me straight into my major of choice though our journey together. I will be a nurse because you made me realize that if I can help relieve someone's pain, be it emotional or physical, I will do everything in my power.

I'm ready to leave this experience in the past, I hate to think of it even now. However, I know that it will never leave me. I will remember when I'm speaking to my patients, they trust me like I trusted you. I will remember when I tuck my children in at night, they will love me like I loved you. I will remember when I am talking to new nurses, they will respect me like I respected you.

I had to grow up fast in the time that I knew you. I had thick skin before, but you can bet that it's a hell of a lot stronger now.

Some women are lost in the fire. Some are built from it.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you,

The Student You Didn't Believe In