A Day in the Life...

Doesn't everybody have that one teacher who has affected their life in a positive way, influenced their post-high school decisions, is fondly remembered and never forgotten? I had one of those.

Mr. Buch.

He was my high school choir director, but he was more than that. He was inspirational in many ways, more than I could write in this blog. He loves his students, he loves music, and he loves God. All of that shone through his very being. He still teaches at West High. And today, I am him.

He never gets a sub when he can't be at school. He simply cancels class. But for the past 3 days, he's been in Oklahoma (dining with my brother!!) for a music conference, and it being so close to spring concert time, he called me up and asked if I would sub for him for 3 days! So here I am, sitting at his computer (literally), directing his students while gazing at the same chairs I used to sit in, the same piano, the same room, even the same choir times. It's truly surreal. Am I 18 again??? Feels like it. I just want to sit with the kids and sing with them :o)

But now I am on the other side of the choir. Aside from a few musical blunders (I've just seen the music this week, after all), it's really going well. It's fun yet challenging. I think I am learning more than they are :o) But the best part is being able to get up in front of them and encourage them in their music. To remind them of what a gift they have here at West High. That as they move on into college, they will not hear of another music department quite like the one they are privelaged to be a part of right now. And to tell them their beloved choir director hasn't changed a bit :o)

This is my last day as Mr. Buch. And yet again, even though he wasn't here, he has given me an experience I will never forget.