Where Do I Find Hope?

I recently received a survey from a Teachers' Association, asking me various questions about Professional Development.  I normally throw such things into the "Do Later" file, but since we were standing in lines at Disneyland (3-5 hours for FROZEN princesses, for any of you taking a trip there in the near future..ugh) so I decided to plunge.  My favorite question was "Where do you find hope each day?"  I instantly thought about their faces.  Crusty and laden with their free/reduced breakfasts.  Uncombed hair that is hurriedly pulled into pig tails or braids by my EA or myself before the bell rings.  Mismatched socks and dollar store jewelry. Smiles as they hand me a used box of Skittles, which they have managed to fill with all of their most precious treasures.  When I tell them how wonderful it is, they simply reply, "It's for you."  When they reflect on love-let them see me.  Consistency.  Patience.  I tell them I love them.  I tell them I believe in them.  There is nothing they could ever do to jeopardize their worth to me.  I facilitate a place where mistakes are acceptable.  Where friendships are cultivated and created.  An environment that celebrates individual achievements and self reflection.  I was once a struggling child, sitting in the background, afraid to say that I didn't understand.  I choose to do whatever it takes, EACH DAY, to be hope.  When I need to feel hope, I look into their eyes.  That's all I need to be reminded what an awesome privilege it is to be "Their Teacher