I suddenly find myself setting in my Ohio hotel room having just got in from working and unable to attend Mr. Tweel’s visitation struck with a loss for words. So many moving messages have been written about him in the past few weeks that I think "what possibly could I have to add?" Then I find myself thinking only two words over and over.
"Thank You"
Thank You Mr. Tweel for being a mentor to me and so many hundreds of students over your teaching career.
Thank You for being the "fun" teacher but also for jerking a knot in my tail when needed.
Thank You for providing an atmosphere of comradery and trust that fostered so many friendships that still exist today.
Thank You for your patriotism and love of this country that poured out of you and rubbed off on your students.
Thank You for being refreshingly honest no matter who was around to hear it.
Thank You for taking us on bands trips during your "week off" every spring.
Thank You for the support and kindness you showed my family when we lost my father.
Thank You for not pressing charges or otherwise harming me & an unnamed accomplice when you found out about that whole joy riding in your Blazer thing. (Although you were more than slightly irritated I would have to say.)
Thank You for pushing me to do better no matter what I was attempting.
Thank You for being there all those years ago.
Even though it has been 17 years since I left your Band Room and many days I feel like I have lived another life since then. Those years will hold some of the fondest, warmest, and meaningful memories that I will always cherish
Bob when I think of you I cannot picture you any other way than with that mischievous smile that often graced your face and I am sure that’s the way you will look when I see you again someday.