Dear Two-Thousand-Five,

So long, it's been swell!—well, not really, but you taught me a lot, and I'm a better person for it. You didn't have an easy job, but your instruction did not go to waste. I was able to see the splendor in a moment because of you, and to understand the intricacies of delight. You taught me love through heartache, strength through weakness...and life through death.

"All who wander are not lost," as Tolkien said. I think we all need a good year of wandering in our lives. Well, several, probably. Limits were made to be tested, and phew!—I did some testing, let me tell you!   But, 'Five? I am happy with my results. For a year with such pain spilled over so many months, I remember so much laughter. People keep wishing me a better year with your successor...but really, you were pretty darn special in your own little way. I'm thankful to have known you, and will recall you with great fondness.

"When the student is ready, the teacher will appear," as the proverb goes. I'm glad I had the opportunity to meet you, Teach'. Goodnight and Godspeed.