The Hero's Journey: A Short Story

Hi, Karen! I'm thrilled to hear back from you! You couldn't have written back at a better time. To be honest, I'm a bit queasy about rereading that last message I wrote because of how all over the place it is and my cringeworthy grammar. If I were to reread this message in another five years might be weirded out just the same. I guess at some point you've got to accept your own quirkiness if you haven't already.

You're one of my favorite teachers I've ever had. English and writing played a part, but the way you taught and related to kids on their level was pretty awesome to watch. I thought it was funny how you'd go off subject at a moment's notice and I remember you even bringing up two of my favorite subjects in class - Punk Rock and graffiti. I was especially impressed by your broad-mindedness and unrelenting support for the underdog.

I'll never forget the time when I read aloud a story about the sudden passing of my stepfather and when I finished, no one in the room applauded. I can't remember exactly what you said, but you stood up for me and the next thing you knew, everyone started
It's a metaphor in literature, myth, movies, etc. where a hero receives a calling and sets out to reach a goal or pursue a cause larger than oneself. Along the way they meet mentors who impart wisdom, compassion and courage and nudges them forward in a positive direction. On the flip side, they inevitable meet with resistance and people who don't have their best intentions at heart to test their will and prepare their spirit. The Wizard of Oz and Star Wars storylines are classic examples but one of my favorite hero/mentor relationships - both real and fictional - is between the boisterous Daniel and the modest, yet masterful Mr. Miyagi in the original Karate Kid movies. Anyway, I like to think of you and a few others who've made a lasting impact on me as mentors that I esteem and strive to emulate specific qualities I admire in