I believe that humans are just like the notorious infrared homing missiles that are used by the military to seek and destroy a target by the temperature it puts off in its emissions. We are heat-seeking missiles our entire lives and, too often, our search for warmth can be our undoing.  

Think about everything we do. Are we not seeking warmness at every turn? Affection, compassion, tenderness, care, sympathy, empathy, love and friendliness are all sources of heat to the human soul and so that is for which we search. 

People who turn to vices akin to drinking alcohol in excess, drugs and all sorts of deviant behaviors have often been thwarted at one time or another by the people in their lives and, thus, turn to artificial means in the attempt to find the warmth they desire. 

According to Webster: In physics and thermodynamics, heat is the process of energy transfer from one body or system due to thermal contact, which in turn is defined as an energy transfer to a body in any other way than due to work performed on the body. Isn’t that what I just said before in a twisted about sort of way?

I think back with much benevolence to many of the schoolteachers I’ve had the privilege of knowing in my life from elementary school on. I reflect on the many proficient educators with a sense of respect, but among those are the special that touched my life with kindness and gave me the sense of warmth. Those I remember with sincere gratitude. Learning is a great gift and an essential mineral, but warmth is the life-element for the human soul. 

An understanding heart is everything in a teacher and cannot be praised enough. The curriculum is merely the raw material that a good and kind tutor can weave into so much more than just intellectual growth. We all need the compassion shown to us that will spur us on to be good leaders and great citizens with conscience and conviction, with patience and spirit. 

I know that the warmth required to teach someone how to be a good, compassionate human being is supposed to be taught in the family and church situation. The epidemic of single parent families, the distance of competent precursor role models and busy lives are pushing the church-family scenario into the background. Sometimes the most influential persons in our children’s lives are their teachers and coaches. 

I look forward to the building of the new high school in Hills. The old building has served the community well for many, many years but, just like a lot of other things, it has outlived its usefulness. I applaud the forward-thinking community for passing the bond with a resounding “yes” vote. 

But with all the excitement that a new building causes, let us not forget that the education of our students lies in the warmth of the teachers, the importance of the extended family network and the solid foundation of religion. A new roof over their heads, the latest technology in their hands and new floors under their feet will never replace these warmth elements in their lives. Quality, caring instructors like we have the honor of having now at HBC are a necessity.  

Changes are coming! Building and expansion will be just great.

But finding warmth in our community will help us close the gate.

Cleverly disguised as a responsible adult, I’m Nancy Kraayenhof. Share your comments, questions or ideas with me at Nancy861@msn.com