How in God's name is there a teacher shortage?

Yes, I know. I know all too well.

The long hours. Being underpaid (at least, in money). Strict guidelines and mind-deadening policies to follow. You will most likely get written up - not commended - whenever you venture outside the box. And you are primarily judged by your students’ test scores (not whether you inspire your students to be better people or not).

If all of the above statements are true - and I have a lifetime of experience to verify that they are - then one may well wonder why anyone in their right mind would want to become a teacher.

But, as the great Paul Harvey used to say, there is the rest of the story.

There is, in fact, immeasurable wealth to be found in becoming a teacher. No, it’s not the kind you can take to the bank. Better than that; it’s the kind you can leave behind - a true legacy of love and inspiration like no other profession in all the world.

“So, little boy or girl, tell me … what would you like to be when you grow up? A fire fighter? A law enforcement officer? A doctor? A lawyer? A sports star? A millionaire? A singer? A scientist?”

Uh … how about if you could become every one of those, all at once?

Well, there is such a job. It’s called “teacher”.

At this very moment, as I sit at my desk typing, I am “all of the above”. And more. Much more.

As their teacher, I became a permanent part of every student I’ve ever taught … as they have become a permanent part of me.

There is no calling in life more valuable to civilization than that of being a teacher. There is no career more integral to the perpetuation of a true democracy. There is no job more universally respected, in any culture throughout the world.

So why wouldn’t you consider becoming a teacher? Or, maybe even better yet, why wouldn’t you encourage your son or daughter to consider becoming one?