Dennys came running into my office. “Noooooo! You can’t go!” And he grabbed me in a big bear hug.
I have been Dennys’ School Counselor for 2 years. In 6th grade, Dennys came up and hugged me every morning, as I greeted him in the hallway. He didn’t care who was around or who was watching. This year, though, was different. The first day of 7th grade, Dennys looked different to me. He looked older and more mature. “Wow! What a big change!” I thought, as I smiled at his growing up.
Then, as he approached, reality set in. He wasn’t coming straight to me for his big bear hug, and he wasn’t looking me in the eye. I held out my arm in anticipation, as I had the entire 6th grade year. I called out his name cheerily, but that only made him look nervously at me. Then the bitter sweet truth set in: Dennys had outgrown hugging his School Counselor.
I adjusted quickly and held up my open hand for a “high 5” slap. His reservation ended, and he smiled as he “high 5’ed” me back. The anxious moment of agreeing on a 7th grade appropriate greeting was over.
However, when Dennys received the word that I was retiring at the end of this month, he was all too happy to go back to the way we were. It was almost as if he blamed himself for my leaving because he quit giving me daily hugs.
“Why do you HAVE to go?”
“Dennys, I’m so glad that you will miss me, because you are very special to me, too; and I will miss you as well.” Then, I explained that my husband was accepted at the University in Italy, and I was going to retire and go with him to Italy.
“Ohhh!” Dennys said thoughtfully. Then his brain took over for his heart, and he agreed that I should go with my husband. After another big hug, he left, mumbling to himself.
It was a priceless interchange that I have already written in my journal. My relationships with Dennys and so many other students have made my years in education much more than gratifying and satisfying. They have been priceless and unforgettable. I shall cherish all of them.
Thank you all,
Dr. Morich
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