English As a Second Language Teacher Finds Work Rewarding

The following is a letter from a Mesa Public Schools Adult Education
instructor written to her ESOL students:

What My Students Teach Me
My students are very insightful, wise teachers.  After working eight to ten
hours landscaping, in a restaurant, factory or at home caring for children,
they walk into class with the most radiant smiles and a happy "Good Evening."
The classroom is often full of laughter.  The students know that life is to
be enjoyed.  Every day is a celebration.  They show me by their actions how
to live each hour with joy; so you will have joyful days, joyful years and
a joyful life.
I am humbled by the gracious way my students choose to live.  It's easy in
America to forget the most essential pieces of life: love, laughter and
gratefulness.  I think of how my students live such hard-working lives in a
country that is unfamiliar to them in words, sights, sustenance and
culture.  Yet, there is so much dignity and devotion in all that they
do.  I am humbled by their personal grace.
My students elevate my spirit.
With respect and gratitude,
L.A. Ligouri