This is why I do it.

All of the woes of teaching:

the never-ending grading

the constant complaining

the immature punks

student whispers they think you didn't hear

the lesson planning

the long hours

the students forgetting you are a person with feelings

the discipline

They are all worth it when you hear:

"Mrs. Gilbert, your class is so awesome!"

"This is my favorite class ever!"

"I learned so much today!"

"Thanks for that lesson, Mrs. Gilbert!"

"This activity is really fun!"

All of those woes combined are worth it for just one of these small comments.

I don't think some students quite understand the woes they can cause.

Or how one simple comment can make it all worth it.

So...to the students who take the time to tell me something great:

Thanks. It means a lot.

And this is why I do it.