We don't know what it takes some people to get through our door
When I was in third grade, a new girl moved into our class. Her name was Ellie. She had a beautiful smile but often came to school dirty and disheveled. Many children made fun of her. It broke my heart to see others being so mean. I tried to get to know her, but I could have done more. I remember one day when Ellie was late for school. She walked in and our teacher, who often yelled at us, yelled at her. I hated it when he yelled. He yelled at her for being late and asked her if she just couldn’t get out of her nice, warm bed. He was really unkind. When he was done yelling, I wanted to offer her some comfort. I quietly went to her desk and patted her hand and told her she looked nice today. I smiled at her and got back to my seat before my teacher noticed that I was out of my seat. Ellie had taken the time to do her hair and brush her teeth and that is why she was late. Years later, as an adult, this teacher remorsefully recounted this awful day to my mom from his perspective. He told her how sorry he was that he yelled at Ellie and that hearing my kind words reminded him to watch his own words. He said that he never yelled at anyone again for being late. He realized he did not know what it took some students to get through his door in the morning. Kindness goes a long way.
Sherene Van Dyke, Spring City, Utah, USA