This article is going to be a bit personal for me, but the person I am going to be talking about needs recognition. This is a letter to one of my heroes who just happened to be my 9th grade history teacher. My hope in writing this and putting it out to the public is that you will feel a sense of appreciation for certain people in your life and get inspired to tell someone just how much they mean to you.
If you're reading this and you aren't from my high school, I'll tell you a little about this amazing woman whom I'll be writing to. Mrs. LaFountain is a teacher at my former high school. She teaches World History and AP Art History. She's a mother of 2 adorable kiddos and a wife to a man who has served our country (who actually just got back home! Woohoo!). On top of it all she's the varsity field hockey coach.
In 9th grade, I had her as my history teacher and I am so thankful that I was put into that class, it changed my life forever. One day, I had a really bad panic attack in her room; she took me out into the hallway that day and we had a long talk. A talk that made me feel safe, validated, and cared for. For the first time in that school I felt like my problems were being heard. Fast forward to later that year, I was put in the hospital for mental health care. Mrs. LaFountain was an outstanding advocate and support during that time of need. Throughout the rest of my high school career, she was like a second mom to me. My whole family loved this woman and the care she gave me. I knew I found someone special. This woman has stuck up and advocated for me, has been a shoulder to cry on, and has been my hero for the last couple of years.
Mrs. LaFountain,
I don't even know where to begin. I guess I'll start off by saying that you are the strongest person I know. You are the true definition of a hero to me. I hope that one day I'll be able to have at least half the strength that you have now. You filled a hole that I had in my heart, and I truly mean that. You have done so much for me, I'll never feel like "thank you" is enough. Your willingness to understand and connect with people, especially your students, is inspiring. The way you carry yourself after all you've been through is astounding. You've taught me that it's okay to cry. That it's okay to fall down and need help getting back up. I wouldn't have made it through high school without you. Thank you for all the times I interrupted your class and you walked right out of the room because you knew I needed you. Thank you for always making me feel safe and heard and validated. Thank you for always being in my corner. I will never forget some of the advice and words of wisdom you have given me since I was a freshman. Thank you for making me feel like my life was worth living and that I mean something to this world. You mean so, so much to me. It's honestly hard putting it into words just how special you are to me. As I'm writing this, I'm reflecting back on all the times we've had together. And even though most of them include tears -- happy and sad -- I can say that you have been there since the beginning and have supported me through all of my ups and all of my downs. I could honestly go on forever. I will always treasure our bond and relationship.
Never forget how important you are. You are enough, you are amazing.
-Clancy
