There are a lot of reasons why I started teaching English, but the most prominent is my love for reading and the power that books have to create and strengthen relationships.
I’ve recently reflected on all of the relationships that have grown because of books – and they are some of the most important people in my life. My childhood best friend and I used to trade books in the halls during our time at Concordia. My elementary school librarian used to set a book aside for me. My college friends text me regularly to ask for book recommendations or to chat about a book we have in common. My fellow CLHS English teacher, Mrs. Beverly, always lets me know what her book club is reading. I often check in with my missionary friend in Costa Rica to see what she has read lately, and she always has a quick reply. For Christmas I always give a book to my sister and receive books for my classroom library from my brother.
Books connect us and give us a starting point for life-giving conversation. Sharing a love of reading or a love for a specific character gives a jumping off point for relationships to start and to grow. When a student recommends a book or wants to talk to me about what they are reading, it is my favorite day. Even when the time changes, it’s snowing in March, grades are due, and life is stressful – I get to have a conversation with someone I love about something I love. Literature is powerful. It can connect people across the world, friends that have grown apart, families, classmates, and even a teacher (who is growing increasingly out of touch with what is cool with teenagers) to a student.
Betsy Ladwig,
English Teacher