Who really is the teacher?

What is that saying about the teacher becoming the student?

I had the privilege of mentoring a high school student during her internship this year. She wants to be a professional author. She is already an amazing writer. She bares her soul, leaves her heart on the page, and beckons the reader to think...really think.

Sure, I was able to offer her many writing resources, and share my experience and gained knowledge, maybe even a bit of wisdom…

But I learned so much from her.

I love writing. I love the writing community. I love how expansive the world becomes when I write and read ,even from the isolation of my own tiny office. But truly, I get a bit overwhelmed and frustrated at times.

This partnership reignited the excitement in me. Like a mirror, I saw my enthusiasm in her.

When I asked, “Do you want me to read yours?” Her eyes lit up. When I asked, “Do you want to take a break or keep going?” She shined. Of course she wanted to keep going. And so did I.

I will buy all of her books one day, and proudly line my shelves with her voice.

I still have a lot to learn.