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Thoreau. Ms. Johnson made us stretch our young minds at a time when thinking was the last thing we wanted to do.

Fridays meant spelling and vocabulary tests—twenty impossibly difficult words that we had to not only memorize, but understand. The real challenge wasn’t the spelling or definitions; it was using each word correctly in a sentence. That exercise taught me precision with language that serves me to this day.

Ms. Johnson helped me discover something I didn’t know about myself. I’d always excelled in math and science, but she showed me I had a gift for English, too. She taught me to see symbolism in literature, to appreciate the craft of writing, and to understand that words have power.

Sadly, I never developed an ability to create my own poetry, but I did learn to appreciate it. Even today, when I pick up a book of poetry and randomly select a verse, I’m instantly transported back to that sweltering classroom. I’m sixteen or seventeen again, sitting among my peers, discussing the deeper meanings of words and life itself. The heat is oppressive, sweat drips down my face, but my mind is completely engaged, hungry for the wisdom Ms. Johnson shares.

We don’t always recognize when we’re living through moments that will shape us forever. Looking back, I know Ms. Johnson didn’t just teach me about English lit. She taught me to open my mind—a lesson that has served me well. And for that gift, I’ll be forever grateful.