Dear Jaremy

Dear Jaremy,

How strange to be “assigned” to write you a letter of encouragement when so often I’m on the phone saying to just come home already :) Okay, after I say that I usually tell you that it will get easier. At least, I hope it will get easier.

Well, it was pretty exciting that your troubles became the focus of my class this last week. A cohort full of brains buzzing with fresh educational theories and practices is much better than one measly brain….(mine) So thanks to Nancy (my teacher) for her inspiration to share your story! I hope that someone’s advice helps you out in some way. I read through some of my classmates blogs and they give a lot of good advice from the chapters we are reading…so since they covered a lot of ground in that sense, I will spare you more book talk and speak from my heart to yours, as much of our friendship was, and is, based on long heart to hearts about life…although the phone and internet does lack the beautiful backdrop we once enjoyed while sitting on your back porch.

I think I will never forget the night before your “Teach for America” demonstration. You had five minutes to prove to a room full of strangers that you would make a great teacher, so you practiced in front of me because I was your friend, and a teacher in the making. I felt so humbled that you sought my advice and personal recommendation to get you into the program. That night, the moment you started dancing around with balloons taped to your hands and head representing molecules, I knew that I would lose you to these strangers forever! Of course, OF COURSE you were going to be great! (Although when you tell me you literally have to tap dance in front of your classes to hold their attention….I can actually picture just that.)

Since I talk to you all the time, I really didn’t know what I was going to say to you that I haven’t already….but I guess sometimes things just need to be repeated for emphasis. For that purpose, I’m reminding you of things I once said…here is part of the letter I wrote to you the night you left :(
As sad as I am to see you go, to not have you at arms length, I am excited to see you open this new chapter in your life. To venture into this unexpected life twist, and tap into the overwhelming potential you have to change these lucky children’s lives. You are an extremely influential person Jaremy, don’t forget that. You must know how much I admire your character, what an amazing man you have grown to be. And what a privilege it has been to watch you grow. You are an amazing person. Do not take these compliments lightly! You never cease to amaze me! You have the ability to touch so many people with your charismatic and sincere personality, and your un-numbered talents and abilities.
Though I have no doubt that this experience will test you in ways that we cannot foresee, I do not hesitate in saying that you will overcome any challenge that comes to pass, and it will be for the better. You once told me that “It will be better in the end, if its not, its not the end.” Remember those words Jaremy.

I also want to share with you some of the things I wrote about you when I was filling out the recommendation for Teach for America. So don't read it if you don't want to know what I said!!!

Jaremy is one of the most charismatic men I have ever known, people have always been naturally drawn to him. He has a talent for making others feel at ease. He adapts well to any situation or personality. He himself is a very motivated person and his attitude is contagious. He has a high sense of self-efficacy that is demonstrated almost immediately through his actions and relations. He is a professional in every sense of the word, but not unwilling to admit fault and ask for help when appropriate. He is a real team player, a very cooperative associate. I myself am close to graduating in the field of education at Utah Valley University. And though I would be considered an amateur in the world of education, I feel my opinion is quite valid. I have had the pleasure of knowing Jaremy for a long time and have no doubt in my mind that he would excell in the profession. Not only is he incredibly intelligent, but I have come to realize what an extremely competent and capable human being he is. Firm, yet personable, creative, as well as humorous and quick-witted.

None of that has changed, in fact, I believe those words even more! You are doing so much good! I miss you a lot but I, as well as the rest of us you left behind, knew all along that we couldn’t keep you forever…it wouldn’t be fair. See you soon :)