Q: I’m an 18-year-old high school student. I took Spanish one semester and met the most amazing teacher. I could talk to her about anything going on in my life, and she would listen without making judgments about my character.
The first day of my senior year, I tried to find her, but I discovered that she had taken another job.
A series of unfortunate events has occurred during my senior year, and I feel like I have no one to talk to or look up to for help. How do you learn to cope with your troubles by yourself?
Catherine: I admire your desire to talk through your issues, and I understand how unnerving it can be to lose a mentor.
I wish I could tell all students to use their teachers and counselors more. There are people at your school who focus entirely on talking with students about rough situations. I’m sure you can “click” with one of these professionals, so seek them out.
Also, keeping a journal for your unedited thoughts and feelings can be a huge help during tough times. When you keep a log of your feelings, you will start to see patterns in your behaviors and reactions. It also just feels nice to write it all down.
Danny: The great thing about your question is that the answer already lies within your own words. You understand how others can help shape your character, and this makes YOU extraordinary.
There will be many people who enter your life for one reason or another. Some will be amazing and others not so much. Each, however, will offer a unique lesson to help map out your way.
Although it is great to have that one special person to confide in, don’t limit yourself. A mom, an aunt, a cousin, a counselor or even a journal can help you sort through the troubles.
You cope by acknowledging your challenges, which you have already done. You cope by understanding your own power to create and change. You cope by using your own will to choose between the good and the bad.
Lily: In my 11 years of teaching, I have had students touch my life in very special ways. Earlier this year, my contract was up for renewal and I was offered a full-time position. Because of the needs of my own family, I had to turn it down. I was devastated, because this was my class, the class of 2007. These kids were the smiles that made my day, the laugh track to all my jokes and my biggest fans, and I could not fathom a school year without them
Your story reminds me of the importance of teachers and their lessons. Take her with you everywhere you go. I promise you that she has taken you with her as well.
Consejos is a bilingual advice column focused on relationships, culture and identity. E-mail your questions or comments to consejos@dallasnews.com. Or send your letters to Consejos, care of Texas Living, The Dallas Morning News, 508 Young St., Dallas, TX 75202.
