An AWE-inspiring day in the life of a teacher...

I am a lucky, lucky man... Check out what landed in my e-mail inbox today!

E-mail #1 - from a former student in my high school World History class (this is going back YEARS!)

Jason,
How have you been?  I'm doing well now that I have graduated from college.  I am a Mechanical Engineer working for Oceaneering International.  I work on Blow-Out Prevention (BOP) systems for the oil and gas industry.  It will prove to be a challenging area for engineering as this company is just getting into these systems and there is a lot of progress to be made in the industry.
I am living in Houston, TX now too.  Little far from Ojai and a totally different social environment.  I am enjoying things thus far.
Let me know if you are ever out this way, maybe we can meet up.
Andrew

And, E-mail #2 - from ANOTHER former student in my high school World History class!

As of right now the expected due date is Oct 27th but I will be letting my people (you) know as the date gets closer if anything changes.  Isn't it weird knowing that you used to teach me history and now I'm having a kid!  time files but friendship never dies.
Brian

Next time you're wondering if what you're doing is making a difference, just take my word for it...

YES! Each of us makes an impact. And, we do so ever...single...day!

Brian and Andrew, thank you guys for remembering me, checking in from time to time, and reminding me to "keep it real." You're an inspiration to me...