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Sharron Bassano's avatar

"I hope there are undercurrents of hope as well." As a teacher, myself, I can affirm that where there is a teacher, there is hope. It is our business, isn't it, my friend? Such a hard topic you took on. Everything about this piece works in my opinion. You told us a little more about who Justin is.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks, Sharron! I agree. Being a teacher has shaped my perspective. I think “hopeful” reflects my attitude a lot of the time. And yes, it really is our business, I think. I appreciate you reading and for the positive feedback! 🙏

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

I always look forward to hearing your stories.

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Kim Smyth's avatar

I’m just glad the student was willing to ask for help! There’s the hope.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Me too. Thanks for reading, Kim!

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Matthew Murray's avatar

Great story Justin! In the times that we are in, I'm sure that is a common practice.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks, Matthew! It’s a sad but true reality.

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James Ron's avatar

Tre is a lucky young man. Really good story and writing, Justin!

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thank you, James!

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Jason McBride's avatar

Great story. Poetry, a good teacher, and a willing student lays the foundation of hope

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Justin Deming's avatar

Very much appreciated, Jason, thank you! 🙏

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Mark Starlin's avatar

We never really know what a person is dealing with. Unless we ask and they tell us. Powerful writing.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thank you, Mark! If there’s anything I’ve learned as a teacher, it’s that we truly have no idea what students may have going on in their lives outside of school. It’s important for me to always keep that thought in the back of my mind.

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Meg Oolders's avatar

"I don’t know why, but I wish Mom would sing like she used to."

Beautiful, Justin.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thank you, Meg! I hope she sings again someday. 🎶 I believe she will.

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Scott Deming's avatar

Powerful and all too common in the real world. Really well done Justin. I'm so thankful for the empathy teachers possess and share with their students. Just one thing, if I may - vodka is odorless. Perhaps it was a cloud of cheap bourbon.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks so much for reading, Uncle Scott. It is one of those sad facts of life. And is it really?! I don’t think I ever knew that about vodka. Makes sense, though. (Granted, it’s not my beverage of choice, ha!) I really appreciate the feedback. Sometimes those tiny details can make or break a story. With that said...I think an edit is in order! 😄

Thanks again!

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Scott Deming's avatar

The devil is in the details!

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Tiffany S.'s avatar

Lot of depth in such a quick read!

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks for reading, Tiffany! Much appreciated!

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Jim Cummings's avatar

Well done. It's a sad fact that there are many kids who suffer silently.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thank you, Jim. So true. I wish more were able to reach out for help when needed. There are so many factors at play.

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nibbins the cat's avatar

Harrowing stuff - feels like it could be the start of something good

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thank you my feline friend!

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Scott Ocamb's avatar

Excellent story, I love how you got so much into just a few words.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks so much, Scott!

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