A warm, simple smile greeting my entrance into to library was all it took.
I took a liking to our library aid, Mrs. Rodeghier, last year when I was junior. My friends and I strolled into the library every third hour to study at the large table. When I got a little too loud, a polite but stern “Colette. Shhh,”  would come from Mrs. Rodeghier in the opposite direction. I would turn and innocently smile at her and she would smile back. She did this often times to remind me to stay quiet and get back on track with homework, which I secretly thank her for. However, she would let me get by with soft whispering. And I graciously thank her for that too. 

I admire the patience Mrs. Rodeghier has with students and other teachers. She’s also kind and encouraging. I remember a couple times checking books out from the library and she would seem almost proud that I, with our technology consumed world, was actually getting a book. And every time, she would give me the honor of picking out a scented bookmark, and encourage me to keep reading. I think that she cares about the students, that is what is most admirable to me.

This year, as I began to make better use of my time to study in the library, I was there almost daily.  And almost every time, Mrs. Rodeghier was there to greet me with a genuine smile and a “Hi, Colette!”  As she does to everyone else. Even with the stress of homework and studying I was going to endure in the library, her simple small talk made it better. And the occasional times she passed out a piece of candy to all of the students definitely helped some too.

When I was at the library I always sat in the same corner. One day Mrs. Rodeghier declared it Colette’s Corner.
“Going to Colette’s Corner today?” She would ask, always making me laugh.
For a time, I didn't go to the library, and when I returned, she commented that I haven't been in my declared spot.I was taken back that she had noticed I was gone. And when she found out (months later) that my birthday had passed, she insisted that I pick out a birthday pencil. I thought how silly it was at first, but realized how such a simple gesture made me feel that she cared.
Mrs. Rodeghier is like a book. Beyond the cover, there is a story. Beyond her cover is a wife, mom, and genuine, down to earth person who I always enjoy talking to. She has never taught me Math, English, or Spanish, but she has taught me that little things, such as birthday pencils, and small talk can leave an impact. Her simple kindness towards others can make all the difference in someone’s day.