I was never the type of person to talk in class. It’s not that I have nothing to say, it’s just that couldn’t get the nerve to try. As soon as the teacher called on me, it happened: the white walls slowly closed in, the floor dropped, and everything spun around me (doesn’t sound fun, right?).

Speaking in class made me feel like Alice plummeting down the rabbit hole, except I didn’t get to end up in Wonderland. I was always too embarrassed to share this with my teachers, so how could they know? Therefore, I struggled in silence. That was before I met Mrs. Passler--a caring friend, a loving mentor, and my British Literature teacher at Arrowhead Union High School.

Even though Mrs. Passler never knew about the things that held me back, she made me feel comfortable, just by being her bubbly self. I looked forward to class--and let me tell you, that was a miracle.

Mrs. Passler would never make students do anything they were not comfortable with. Don’t want to read out loud? No problem. You would rather stay in your seat while presenting? Done. You’re terrified to answer a question in class? Don’t worry about it. She never pressured any of us. Instead, she respected us, and, in turn, everyone respected her.

Thanks to her peaceful atmosphere, students--including me-- eventually felt comfortable answering questions and volunteering for parts in plays. She never criticized, and instead, only complimented--and this made me look forward to raising my hand!

More than once, I stayed after class to have a tranquil, Thursday meditation or a debate over our current novel. She was willing to talk about anything I needed help with. School, books, and life, were all topics waiting to be devoured by her.

Mrs. Passler inspired me to join the Peace Corps. Seeing how much she could do for others made me want to do the same. Her hippie vibe and views on our world connected with me and my personal beliefs. She’s my role model, and pushed me not only to follow my dream, but also to pursue a career of teaching English in foreign countries. Before, I was not sure if I wanted to be a teacher with my anxiety, but Mrs. Passler illustrated how fulfilling and enjoyable teaching can be. Now, I no longer doubt my dreams.

Although I may not be the most energetic girl in class, I look forward to answering questions, and participating. Mrs. Passler taught me not to be afraid. She taught me I just need a sprinkle of confidence, a pinch of zen, and a handful of courage to get through the day.

Mrs. Passler will always be a friend, even if she is no longer my teacher. I thank her for unraveling me from my tightly wound anxiety cocoon--and I just hope that one day I can do for my students what she has done for me.