Something to Think About

Today one of my students told me a story. He told me that someone he knew had seen a child walking around the Capitol Square with a sign. He then wrote the sign out so that I could see it on paper. It said: "We love are teachers." I had to smile with chagrin. Of course the sign should have said, "We love OUR teachers." I was proud of my student for showing me because we have talked about homophones many times this year and he knew the difference.

As for the student who didn't, well, I felt sorry for him because his parents must not have proofread that sign. Humans are not born knowing how to read. Teachers, sometimes parents, teach them. Reading and writing are skills that must be taught and learned. This is a gradual, developmental process for most humans.

As I thought further about this, I couldn't help but think of a dentist or doctor or investment advisor, all professional people who give out good advice. "Floss daily." "Exercise regularly." "Save at least 20 percent of your income." Sad, how it is that some people just don't listen. Maybe, like learning to read, write, and spell, flossing, exercising, and saving money are things that depend on the individual. Some people listen the first time while others must be reminded again and again and again.