Joan Moser
My Dad's 88 years have afforded him the opportunity to apply himself to many trades. Currently, he works as a farmer during the spring, summer and fall, and the long, cold, dark Eastern Washington Winters are reserved for clock making.
For as long as we can remember, I have adored and admired my dad. Our my to be like him has led to various learning opportunities at his side. Some of the things he has imparted are:
- A love of gardening and deep appreciation for dark rich soil
- How to run a business with humor, hard work and integrity
- How to make our partners, spouses, and children look golden
- How to look for the best in situations
- How to cut up and roast a whole chicken
- How to do bookwork that balances to the penny
- And so much more
I, as well as each of my siblings, have homes graced by one of his handmade grandfather clocks. The ticking has become the heartbeat of our homes, a constant reminder of the heart of the man whose hands crafted them with such care. They are so beautiful that I recently asked him to teach me how. He agreed, so last week I headed over the mountains and through the rolling hills of Eastern Washington to my parent's home to embark on our first clock making session. The seasoned clock builder led us into his workshop, where a brand new clock kit awaited.
Anticipation led to a sense of doom when our eyes scanned what appeared to be hundreds of nuts, screws and pieces of wood, metal clock pieces, stain, varnish, and instructions neatly laid out on the work benches. When I picked up the plans, I was able to read them, but understood next to nothing!
Without skipping a beat, my kind and loving Dad gently told me that this sure was a complicated clock and he would love to have it as a winter project. He asked if he could redirect me to a project that was more suited to beginners. It was simpler in design and would give me the foundation and background knowledge necessary so I might tackle a more difficult clock next time.
I have been unable to quit thinking about that day with Dad. He was the consummate coach, able to quickly reevaluate the objective at hand and change direction to best meet my developmental needs, all while remaining positive, encouraging and kind.
It reminds me of what good teachers do on a daily basis. It's why I am so passionate about assessment that informs instructional decisions. When we can change and adapt to what we see happening, we can move our students forward in increments that ensure success.
Dad, thanks for being my amazing teacher. I love you.