Ktantanim Balev

Pirhiya was my third to fifth grade elementary school teacher. Her love for teaching was inspiring. I used to feel that there was no other place she wanted to be other than with us, her students. She always reassured us that she would be available to support us at all times. About six years ago, we had an intimate class reunion, and the organizer surprised us and invited her as well. I will never forget the moment we met. I was surprised and thrilled at the same time. The reunion brought back so many good memories and a sense of pride. I was excited to share my accomplishments in my professional life with her.

Orly, Ruth and I at my 4th birthday party Orly was my first friend. Our houses were located side by side and our friendship flourished when we were four years old. We went to preschool, kindergarten and elementary school together. We always supported each other, went to the same after school activities, and used to play together all the time. Orly taught me the value of friendship, loyalty, and the knowledge that we can connect and support each other even if we live across the ocean from each other. We have a lifelong friendship that has lasted almost five decades. She is my sister at heart. Orly is the example I give my children and my students when I teach the value and power of a meaningful friendship.

My Grandmother Sol and I at my engagement celebration Grandmother Sol taught me a passion for reading. She was a nurturing person with a great sense of humor. Every time she came for a visit, she used to tell me how much she loves me and what I mean to her. I loved her storytelling times, the most. She used to read to us in Spanish and act out the story in a dramatic and amusing manner. I remember myself as a child, asking for one more story time after time. Till this day, when I found myself engaged in storytelling I feel the impact she had on me.

Ruth and I Ruth taught me how to become a big sister, how to care for her and practice being responsible to others. Having only two years difference, we used to play and bike together. Our special bonding time was especially during the night when we used to read to each other and share our secrets. We remained close and continue to support each other. Knowing that she will always be there for me, no matter what means the world to me.

My father and I My parents, sister and I I had warm relationships with my parents. They instilled in me a sense of responsibility, respect, and the value of education. My parents taught me the importance of setting goals and fulfilling my dreams. From my mother, I learned about the power of family and nurturing relationships. My father was a life learner, modeling my sisters and me the value and impact of this path. I feel that those goals setting defines me, and support my life journey. Having such a great role model growing up had set the foundation of the wife, mother and professional educator I am today.

The five people that nurtured me and had a great impact on me while I was growing up were my parents, my sister, my grandmother, my childhood close friend, and my elementary school teacher. I believe that my support system nurtured me and provided me unconditional love, raised my self-esteem and led me to accomplish my dreams and aspirations. I was fortunate to have role models that guided me, instilled important values that define the person I became today.