There’s no one in this world more deserving of a child than Jeremy Young. I’m a student in his choir class and he treats every one of us as if we’re his–he encourages us, leads and helps and appreciates us with his entire heart. I couldn’t be more appreciative that he joined us, and that I’ve had him as my teacher for so long.
When I was in 7th grade, my best friend moved to a different school for a year and instead of getting new friends, the classic bullies moved in. They were relentless and they had no boundaries, and I was struggling to want to go to school and face anyone anymore.
One of those days, however, Mr. Young showed his kindness to me. I tried to skip out on his class (I had never skipped a class before) because I was supposed to sit beside one of the bullies. I was guilty and ashamed, and the girls followed me to the bathroom where I was hiding and mocked me from inside the stall.
I escaped back into his classroom space where Mr. Young was standing by the door, and confronted him. I told him I tried to skip his class, and that I couldn’t stand being next to the girls, and that I was terribly sorry and guilty for skipping. While I told him what those girls were doing, I broke down in tears in front of him.
The ever absolute angel he was. He listened as I cried, he told me I was worth it and that he forgave me for trying to get away. He told me he was sorry for never seeing it, and took me in a classic Mr. Young bear hug. He reassigned my place in the class and actively prevented the girls from speaking to me. He waved to me in the halls and talked when I passed by him leaving class.
From then on I had a protector at my school, and when my friend came back I had a whole table full of people who loved me–all because he brought me back and gave me something worth looking forward to. In his class, I learned self-expression and confidence. I’d never be who I am today without him.
Mr. Young, I’m so thankful for you. I know within my heart you’ll be a perfect father. What with the way you treated me–just a student in your class, part of your job, almost a stranger at that point–any child of yours will be fulfilled, loved, protected, and safe with you.
Sincerely, and with love,
Sesk