the essay that made my english teacher cry ryan pdf

Sex & Relationships

Let's talk about sex, connections and life.

HEARTWRENCHING

Read This Teen's Essay About Her Mom That Has Everyone Ugly Crying On TikTok

A teenager's heartbreaking essay has gone viral, leaving TikTok users sobbing.

At age 18 Ryan Harmann wrote a gut-wrenching piece after losing her mother to cancer. Harmann shared the beautiful piece on her TikTok this week, saying it "made her English professor cry." Well, now we're all crying.

The TikTok video has been viewed almost seven million times and racked up more than one million likes, despite just being screenshots of the essay. We've transcribed them all here for easier reading.

It was May of 2022, when my life was supposed to be at its peak, until one day it wasn't. I had high school graduation and senior week at the beach with my graduating class. I was starting my adulthood and my college career and I couldn't have been happier. In January of 2021, my mom got diagnosed with Sarcoma Cancer and had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatments. From the day she was diagnosed, she lost a different part of her life everyday. She was strong, resilient, loving, caring and most of all the best mom anyone could ask for. She never asked the doctors for a time expectancy, she wanted to live the best she could with her three children and her husband. My mom had a goal from the start, to watch me go to my senior prom and to see me and my sister, Madeleine, walk across the stage at graduation. She achieved both of those goals.

May 26, 2022, I walked across that stage at graduation, with my mom in a wheelchair watching proudly. The first step I took on that stage, I felt her overwhelming amount of love and knew she was she proud and that was all that mattered in that moment. After I graduated, I received a text, "I love you so so much and am so proud of you." Those words felt like I just won the Super Bowl. She didn't get out of the house much so her being able to attend graduation was a big accomplishment and it took a lot out of her. We had a celebratory dinner at home and she was too exhausted to stay awake for dinner. Although it was upsetting that she wasn't at dinner, I was just thankful she was able to be there and meet her goal.

I was looking forward to going on my week-long beach trip with all of my best friends that night. All week long while I was away, I was texting my mom, telling her all of the drama going on with all of my friends and FaceTiming her. Until Friday came along and my mom stopped answering my texts and my FaceTime calls. I was a little worried and debated texting my dad to see if she was okay, but I let it go and continued on with my last night at the beach.

I was excited to get back home and tell my family all about the week I had. Instead, I came home to my mom in bed and my dad sat me and my two older siblings down and told us that our mom wasn't doing well and he was very worried. At the time, I was thinking my dad was freaking out and exaggerating and that she was going to be OK. After a lot of thinking, my dad decided to take her to the hospital. She walked from her room, downstairs and into the car. At the hospital, they told her that her spine is 75 percent collapsed because of the tumors growing rapidly. I thought to myself that my mom was a superstar, she just walked on a spine that almost was completely collapsed. From that point on, my mom entered hospice care and did not get back up from her bed.

We called all of our family and friends and let them know that her life was coming to an end. The first couple days following her entering hospice care, I was in shock, I didn't believe that my mom was going to die when I was only 18 years old. I remember sending a text to my sister, Madeleine, and asking "Is Mom going to die?" Her response was, "In a few weeks, yeah." My heart shattered into a million pieces. I knew from that point on, I was going to take advantage of the time left with my mom and not have any regrets. I did not want to look back at the last few weeks I had left with my mom and think "I wish I spent more time with her" so I did everything in my power to protect my future self from regret. As friends and family members were coming by, I was laying in bed right next to my mom, holding her hand. I couldn't imagine what my life was going to become. My mom reminded as daily that she loved us and that when she passes, she wants us to move forward. She told us, "When I take my last breath, I want you guys to dance, don't cry, dance."

Days started to blur together as my mom went in and out of consciousness for the next couple weeks. I remember sitting in bed, with my door open and my parents bedroom door open too, scared that I would hear her take her last breath. She started talking in her sleep and talking to her deceased mother telling her that she would see her soon.

The stress that my family endured is not something I would not wish on anyone. We were on lockdown, spending time with my mom and watching her slowly go through the different stages of death. I was in a mental block, I wasn't eating as much as I should've, my main focus was spending as much time as I could with her. On July 7th, my mom said to my dad "I'm so tired I need to go, I will see you later," as she closed her eyes. My dad came down the stairs and told us we all need to go say our final goodbyes. My older siblings went up first. I started pacing back and forth, I did not want to say bye to my best friend. I started my journey up the stairs, with tears rolling down my cheeks, and I stopped, I couldn't do it. I walked into my parents bathroom until I built the courage to go and say goodbye. I walked to my mom, kissed her on the forehead and told her I would see her later and that I loved her.

When the news spread that it might be the day she passed, family members were coming to say their goodbyes, until my mom randomly woke up. At this point, she has been in hospice for 4.5 weeks. When she opened her eyes, I was upset. I was upset my mom was alive. I felt like such a horrible human. I walked outside with my heart in my stomach as I saw my dad leaned over crying talking on the phone. I couldn't imagine going through the process of saying goodbye again. My mom was up and talking for about 5 more days until she went back into a state of total unconsciousness. My dad decided to kick me and my siblings out, and send us to our aunt's house at the beach because he didn't want us to see her in that state anymore.

The beach was my moms favorite place. She would sit on the beach from 9 AM-5 PM every chance she would get. She would take any chance she got to go to the beach, especially since it meant spending more time with her kids. She always had a Grapefruit Crush in her hand and soaked up the sun. She looked so beautiful on the beach and she was in her element. I was sitting on the beach, and had a thought that I needed to tell my mom, but realized I couldn't. My mom was still alive, but I couldn't talk to her. I felt weak. I didn't want this to be the end. I had tears in my eyes as my sister said "Ryan, me and Tommy (my brother) are going to go to Jason Aldean on Sunday, do you want to go? I wanted to go, but for some reason the word "no" came out of my mouth. From that moment forward, all I could think about was my mom. I told my siblings I wanted to go back home that night, I couldn't be away from mom anymore.

When we got back home, there was no change in my moms status. We were told, by hospice, to leave her be and she will go on her own. A few days after returning home from the beach, I woke up and my siblings got ready to go to the concert as me and my dad stayed home with my mom. Around 3 PM, I took a nap and woke up to my dad coming out of their room and said "can you go check her breathing?" I went in and she had the death rattle, I knew today was the day. From then on, my dad and I alternated going in and checking on her until about 7:30. We layed in bed with her and realized her skin was ice cold. I layed there until I couldn't anymore, and I went downstairs. Around 9 PM, my worst nightmare came true. I heard my dads footsteps, and turned the corner and said "I think so, I think she's gone." I had never felt a true heart break and such emptiness ever.

We then had to call my siblings at the concert. We called each of them about 20 times. My brother finally picked up and we had to tell them over the phone. I heard my sister scream and sob, that was the moment where I realized this is real life. Friends and family members started trickling in, I met my siblings outside and hugged them in the driveway as they came home from the concert. My sister looked up at me and said, "we didn't answer your calls because we were dancing. We were dancing when mom took her last breath, just like she wanted." I felt relief in this moment, my mom passed away just the way she wanted to and I knew she wasn't in pain anymore.

As I continue living life without my mom, I realize every single thing I do is to make her proud. I have matured and grown as an individual. As I am constantly paralyzed by the pain that is caused by her death, I remind myself that I am lucky enough to feel this great amount of pain because my mother was such a phenomenal person. There is nothing I wish more than to be able to pick up the phone and call my mom, but I feel peace that she is watching over me and sees my every move. She fought her hardest fight for a month and half to give us the time we desperately needed to say goodbye to her, and for that, I will forever be grateful. I celebrate her existence everyday and am so incredibly grateful to have the best Angel looking over me.

Login to leave a comment

Dear author, your poignant article about the loss of your mother touched my soul. The depth of your emotions and the vulnerability in your words brought tears to my eyes. I am truly sorry for your loss and can only imagine the pain you must be feeling. May your mother's soul rest in eternal peace, and may you find solace and strength in the cherished memories you shared. Sending prayers and healing thoughts your way.

In my prayers.

I have been there. I'm really excited that you got that experience, some people go through life and never know This makes us all more understanding of life and death. Yeah it's hard but,I would not have missed it for anything. Praying for you and your family

Sign up for Digg's daily morning newsletter to get the most interesting stories. Sent every morning.

Sign in to your Digg account

Sign in with Google

Sign in with Twitter

By signing up, I agree to Digg's Terms of Use and Privacy policy and consent to processing my personal information and receiving marketing emails.

👋 Welcome to Digg

Thanks for creating an account! Your accounts lets you Digg (upvote) stories, save stories to revisit later, and more.

🎉 You’re all set!

Enjoy your new account! As a reminder, you can change your profile and email settings in your profile.

Return to browsing View account

Get started by creating an account

Sign up with Google

Sign up with Twitter

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

I'm a nutrition doctor — here's who should take magnesium...

Why I cut off my parents after they baby-sat my newborn: 'So...

Dear Abby: My friend keeps making me pay for her pricey dinner...

Parent proudly calls herself a 'Venmo mom' — why her stance is...

Man with 'world's largest penis' reveals the hardest things about...

Flyers can bring these 11 full-size liquids through airport...

Burning Man festival draws star-studded crowd with nudity and...

We met on the NYC subway and now we're getting married — our...

I wrote an essay about my mom’s death — it made my professor cry.

Ryan Harman lost her mom to cancer last year.

In an essay for her English class, she divulged the heart-wrenching journey from diagnosis to death — bringing the internet and her West Virginia University professor to tears.

Harman shared the lengthy text in a viral TikTok video this week, garnering more than 13 million views and 45,000 teary responses.

At a time when her life was “supposed to be at its peak,” everything fell apart, she wrote, explaining that her mom was diagnosed with sarcoma, which invades bones and soft tissue , in 2021.

Harman went on to write that her mom got to see her and her sister graduate from high school, but it wasn’t until the newly minted graduate was on a celebratory beach trip with friends that things went downhill.

Her mom stopped replying to texts and calls, and when Harman returned home, her mom was bedridden with a 75% collapsed spine due to tumor growth.

Dedicated to a life of no regrets, Harman spent as much time as possible with her mom, laying in bed with her, holding her hand.

“She told us, ‘When I take my last breath, I want you guys to dance, don’t cry, dance,'” Harman wrote, expressing shock that she would be losing her mother at just 18.

In the summer of 2022, Harman’s siblings attended a Jason Aldean concert while she opted to stay home — that ended up being the night their mom died. Harman and her father rang them “about 20 times” until someone picked up.

When they arrived home, Harman’s sister said: “We didn’t answer your calls because we were dancing. We were dancing when mom took her last breath, just like she wanted.”

That was the line that choked up viewers .

“The dancing part got me,” one viewer admitted. “I am so sorry for your loss.”

“‘We didn’t answer your calls because we were dancing,'” another quoted. “I lost it.”

“I can’t stop crying,” confessed someone else.

“This broke my heart in the most beautiful way,” a TikToker agreed.

Some invested readers even made their own videos in response, many showing themselves tearing up or fully crying .

“No bc that essay deserves an award,” one user wrote on a clip .

“Me sobbing in the middle of work bc I read the essay,” shared another person on their own video . “‘We didn’t answer bc we were dancing.'”

The Post has reached out to Harman for comment.

“There is nothing I wish more than to be able to pick up the phone and call my mom, but I feel peace that she is watching over me and sees my every move,” Harman wrote.

“I celebrate her existence everyday and am so incredibly grateful to have the best Angel looking over me,” she concluded the essay.

Advertisement

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Life Mother

Ryan Harman: the Essay That Made the Teacher Cry

Table of contents, bittersweet moments before tragedy, processing loss and the rollercoaster of emotions, a teen’s tribute resonates.

*minimum deadline

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below

• Traditional Family Roles

Related Essays

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

• Celebrities
• Science & Tech
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink
• Home & Garden
• Sports & Fitness
• Travel & Outdoors
• Science & tech
• Conversations

Teenager's essay about her mother reduces English teacher to tears

A teen’s heartwrenching essay that made her professor cry has gone viral on TikTok leaving readers “sobbing”.

Teenager Ryan Harman penned the personal essay when she was just 18 years old after losing her mother to cancer.

The TikTok has been viewed almost 7 million times and racked up 1 million likes as Harman shared screenshots of the story she penned about her mother’s untimely death.

Harman’s heartbreaking story began with her explaining that her mother had been diagnosed with Sarcoma cancer in January 2021.

At the time, Harman explained, her mum made it her mission to be around to see her children graduate and attend prom.

The TikToker wrote: “She never asked the doctors for a time expectancy, she wanted to live the best she could with her 3 children and her husband.

Sign up to our free Indy100 weekly newsletter

“My mom had a goal from the start, to watch me go to my senior prom and to see me and my sister, Madeline, walk across the stage at graduation. She achieved both of those goals.”

As her mother’s condition worsened, Harman described the agony of knowing she was going to lose her mother, writing: “My heart shattered into a million pieces.”

Harman recalled being by her mother’s side almost constantly towards the end and feeling a sense of “relief” when the final moment came that “my mom passed away just the way she wanted to and I knew she wasn’t in pain anymore”.

The essay left other TikTokers in tears, with many in the comments commenting on how proud her mother would be of her.

“I can’t stop crying,” one person commented.

Another said: “Beautifully written, I know she is so proud of you.”

Someone else wrote: “I’m sobbing.”

One TikToker commented: “This has me ugly crying right now, you’re so strong. I know your mom is so proud of who you’ve become.”

Have your say in our news democracy. Click the upvote icon at the top of the page to help raise this article through the indy100 rankings.

Jermaine Jenas's bizarre 'securing the coin' goes viral after BBC sacking

Elon musk's own ai system creates video committing armed robbery, cristiano ronaldo surpasses mrbeast youtube record within 24 hours, jd vance's 'medieval' haircut roasted after awkward interaction, ‘world’s oldest pyramid' was not made by humans, archaeologists claim, girls trip interrupted by 'friendly lady' who's in fact shania twain, tom cruise was forcibly kissed at the olympic closing ceremony – sparking debate about consent, what does the project 2025 document actually say, hundreds are relating to this one laundry mistake – here’s what to do instead, gus walz receives wave of support after ann coulter's 'heartless' post, sir david attenborough honoured for supporting wildlife charities over 60 years, don cheadle has awkward reaction after obama says the 'sequel is usually worse', jd vance asks deli owner asking if they sell food 'they really don't like', jd vance roasted for 'swiss cheese' comment in philadelphia.

Teen goes viral as essay that made teacher cry has the internet in tears

A teen by the name of Ryan Harman has gone viral on TikTok after sharing an essay she wrote that made her English professor cry – and it’s now making all of TikTok cry too.

The pen might not be mightier than a sword if you find yourself in a sword fight. However, it is a good tool if you want to make your teachers cry. This is what Ryan Harman did after submitting a personal essay. And she also decided to share it on TikTok.

In just two days, the video has been watched over six million times and has accumulated over 882,500 likes, and for good reason.

The reason? It makes most people who read it burst into tears.

What is the essay that made my English teacher cry trend on TikTok?

Ryan decided to write an essay about her mom, who died in 2022 after a battle with cancer. She explains the heart-wrenching and tragic story of her mother passing away from cancer when she was just 18 years old. 

“From the day she was diagnosed, she lost a different part of her every day. She was strong, resilient, loving, caring and most of all the best mom anyone could ask for,” she wrote. 

It starts with her explaining how proud she’d been after her mom had managed to go to her high school graduation after being unable to leave the house.

Ryan went on to describe how she went on a beach vacation with her friends. While away, her mom suddenly stopped replying to her FaceTime calls. However, Ryan decided not to worry and continued to enjoy her time away.

As she got back home, her mom had gotten significantly worse. The tumors had grown rapidly and her spine had 75% collapsed, and she then entered hospice care and never got back up from her bed.

“The first couple of days following her entering hospice care, I was in shock. I didn’t believe that my mom was going to die when I was only 18,” Ryan wrote.

The rest of the essay detailed the family’s last moments with their mom while her “heart shattered into a million pieces”.

It’s making people all across the world cry

The response Ryan got after posting the essay on her TikTok has been nothing but supportive. With over 20,700 comments, the compliments keep flooding in.

One person commented: “This has me ugly crying right now, you’re so strong. I know your mom is so proud of who you’ve become.”

Another said: “I just sobbed. Im so beyond sorry for your loss, this is beautiful.”

“I just cried so much, this is so good,” a third person wrote.

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Esports, Gaming and more.

The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry: A Journey Within

“The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry” has recently become a viral sensation in the rapid and ever-evolving digital landscape of today. With content varying from humorous memes to touching tales effortlessly captivating millions globally, the internet serves as a grand stage for global sharing and connection.

This essay, crafted meticulously by a high school student, has not only mesmerized its widespread readers but also moved its initial recipient, the student’s English teacher, to tears. With its deeply emotional and stirring content, the essay resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

It underscores the significance of emotional intelligence, emphasizing its powerful role and the indelible impact it can imprint on others. This piece of writing stands testament to the innate human potential for empathy, understanding, and the transformative influence wielded by words.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, often overlooked in favor of more quantifiable skills, is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It plays a crucial role in our personal and professional lives, allowing us to navigate relationships, make informed decisions, and empathize with others.

This essay, written by a teenager, beautifully captures the essence of emotional intelligence and its profound impact on the people around us. It serves as a testament to the power of emotional understanding and the deep connections it can foster.

The Essay That Moved a Teacher to Tears

The essay, titled “A Journey Through Emotions,” was assigned as a class project on the topic of emotional intelligence. The teenage student, who wishes to remain anonymous, poured their heart and soul into the assignment, sharing personal experiences and reflections on their own emotional journey.

They delved into their deepest feelings, exploring their emotional growth and the lessons they had learned along the way. Little did they know that their words would have such a profound effect on their teacher, moving them to tears and sparking a wave of emotional resonance that would soon spread across the internet.

A Personal Connection

The teacher, who has been teaching for over a decade, was deeply moved by the essay. It resonated with them on a personal level, as they too had experienced similar emotions and challenges throughout their own life.

The raw honesty and vulnerability displayed in the essay struck a chord with the teacher, reminding them of the power of emotional intelligence and the importance of acknowledging and expressing our emotions. The essay served as a mirror, reflecting their own experiences and emotions, and highlighting the universal nature of emotional struggles and growth.

The Impact of the Essay

After reading the essay, the teacher couldn’t help but shed tears. They were not tears of sadness, but rather tears of empathy and understanding. The essay had touched them in a way that no other piece of writing had before.

It reminded them of the power of emotional intelligence and the profound impact it can have on our lives. The essay served as a catalyst, sparking a wave of emotional resonance that would soon spread across the internet. It was a testament to the power of words and the deep emotional connections they can foster.

Going Viral

The teacher, deeply moved by the essay, decided to share it with their colleagues and friends. They posted it on their social media platforms, hoping to share the powerful message with others. Little did they know that it would soon go viral, capturing the attention of millions of people around the world.

The essay was shared on various social media platforms, where it quickly gained traction and started to spread like wildfire. It resonated with people from all walks of life, sparking a wave of emotional resonance and highlighting the universal nature of emotional struggles and growth.

The Internet’s Response

The internet was captivated by the emotional essay, with many people expressing their own experiences and emotions in response. The comments section of the post was flooded with messages of support, empathy, and gratitude. People from all walks of life shared how the essay had touched them and reminded them of the importance of emotional intelligence in their own lives.

The essay sparked a wave of emotional resonance, with people from all over the world connecting over their shared experiences and emotions. It served as a reminder of the universal nature of emotional struggles and growth, and the profound impact that our words can have.

Lessons Learned

This viral essay serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that emotional intelligence can have on others. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and expressing our emotions, as well as the power of vulnerability and authenticity.

The essay also serves as a call to action, urging readers to cultivate their own emotional intelligence and to be more empathetic and understanding towards others. It serves as a testament to the power of emotional understanding and the deep connections it can foster.

In a world that often values logic and reason over emotions, this emotional essay serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of emotional intelligence. It has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world, reminding us of the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and empathy.

As we navigate through life, let us remember the lessons learned from this essay and strive to cultivate our own emotional intelligence, making the world a more compassionate and understanding place for all. Let this essay serve as a reminder of the profound impact that our words can have, and the deep emotional connections they can foster.

Ricky Nguyen is a talented author and journalist known for his expertise in covering the latest news about celebrities and the entertainment industry. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Ricky has made a name for himself as a prominent figure in the world of entertainment journalism.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

CA Headline

Your Pulse on the Golden State

Student’s Essay Brings Teacher to Tears: The Power of Vulnerability in Writing

Writing can be a powerful tool for expressing emotions and connecting with others. When students are able to channel their vulnerability into their writing, it can create a profound impact on their readers, as one teacher recently experienced. The essay that made the teacher cry, written by Ryan Harman, is a poignant example of the power of vulnerability in writing.

The Essay That Moved a Teacher

Ryan Harman, a high school student, wrote an essay that deeply moved his English teacher to tears. In his essay, Harman shared his personal experiences with loss, heartbreak, and resilience. His raw and honest storytelling touched something deep within his teacher, demonstrating the power of vulnerability in writing. Harman’s willingness to open up and share his vulnerabilities allowed him to connect with his teacher on a deeply emotional level.

The Impact of Vulnerability in Writing

When students embrace vulnerability in their writing, it allows them to express themselves in a way that is authentic and relatable. The essay that made the teacher cry is a testament to the impact that vulnerability can have on both the writer and the reader. By sharing their innermost thoughts and emotions, students can create a profound connection with their audience and evoke powerful emotions.

The Importance of Encouraging Vulnerability

As educators, it is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages students to express themselves openly and honestly through their writing. By nurturing an atmosphere of trust and acceptance, teachers can empower students to embrace vulnerability in their writing, leading to impactful and meaningful compositions. The essay that made the teacher cry is a reminder of the importance of fostering an environment in which students feel comfortable sharing their vulnerabilities.

The Healing Power of Writing

For many students, writing can be a therapeutic outlet for processing their emotions and experiences. By allowing themselves to be vulnerable on the page, students can find healing and catharsis through their writing. The essay that made the teacher cry is a powerful example of the healing potential of writing, as Harman’s heartfelt words not only resonated with his teacher but also provided a source of emotional release for himself.

The essay that made the teacher cry, written by Ryan Harman, serves as a compelling testament to the power of vulnerability in writing. When students are able to authentically express their emotions and experiences, it can create a profound impact on their readers and themselves. As educators, it is vital to cultivate an environment that encourages students to embrace vulnerability in their writing, allowing for personal growth, emotional connection, and healing through the written word.

How can teachers support students in embracing vulnerability in their writing?

Teachers can support students by creating a safe and non-judgmental space where students feel comfortable expressing their emotions and experiences through their writing. Encouraging open discussions about vulnerability and providing constructive feedback can also help students feel supported in sharing their personal stories.

What are the benefits of writing with vulnerability?

Writing with vulnerability can lead to greater emotional connection with readers, personal catharsis, and a deeper understanding of one’s own experiences. It can also foster empathy and compassion in the writer and their audience.

How can students develop the courage to be vulnerable in their writing?

Students can develop the courage to be vulnerable in their writing by practicing self-reflection, finding supportive writing communities, and seeking inspiration from writers who courageously share their personal stories. Additionally, receiving encouragement and positive feedback from teachers and peers can help students build confidence in their ability to write vulnerably.

the essay that made the teacher cry ryan harman Reading the student’s essay brought me to tears. It was a powerful testament to the raw and emotional power of vulnerability in writing. As a teacher, I am constantly impressed by the depth of emotion and honesty that my students are able to convey through their writing. This particular essay struck a chord with me because it was so honest and raw. I could feel the student’s pain and struggle through every word, and it was truly moving.

The power of vulnerability in writing cannot be overstated. When students are willing to open up and share their true thoughts and emotions, it creates a deep connection between the writer and the reader. This connection allows the reader to empathize with the writer, to feel their pain and joy, and to gain a deeper understanding of the human experience. It is in these moments of vulnerability that true connections are formed, and deep emotions are stirred.

The ability to be vulnerable in writing is a rare and precious gift. In a world that often encourages us to hide our emotions and put on a brave face, the act of sharing one’s true feelings and experiences is a courageous and powerful act. When students are able to tap into this vulnerability in their writing, it not only allows them to express themselves in a profound and meaningful way, but it also helps them to grow and learn from their experiences.

As a teacher, it is my goal to create a safe and supportive environment for my students to explore their emotions and share their experiences through their writing. I want them to feel comfortable expressing themselves honestly and without fear of judgment. When a student is able to tap into their vulnerability and share their truth through their writing, it is an indication that I have succeeded in creating this kind of environment.

The student’s essay reminded me of the incredible power of storytelling. When we share our stories, we are able to connect with others on a deep and meaningful level. It is through these stories that we are able to learn from one another, find comfort in shared experiences, and gain a deeper understanding of the human condition.

The act of writing is an incredibly vulnerable one. It requires us to dig deep into our own psyche, to confront our emotions head-on, and to be willing to share our innermost thoughts and experiences with the world. It takes courage and strength to do this, and I am always in awe of the bravery and honesty that my students are able to display through their writing.

In conclusion, the power of vulnerability in writing cannot be understated. When students are able to tap into their true emotions and share their experiences openly and honestly, it creates a deep and lasting connection with their audience. It is through this vulnerability that we are able to learn from one another, gain a deeper understanding of the human experience, and find comfort and healing in shared stories. As a teacher, it is my goal to continue to foster this environment of openness and vulnerability, and to help my students find their voice and share their truth through their writing. the essay that made the teacher cry ryan harman

As the dedicated admin for CAHeadline, We plays a pivotal role in shaping the news landscape of California. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for journalism, We have been instrumental in curating and managing content that resonates with a diverse Californian audience.

View all posts

Related Posts

Lindsay Casinelli: The Rising Star at Univision

• News Updates
• December 30, 2023

Lindsay Casinelli is making waves at Univision with her charismatic personality and impressive journalism skills. As a rising star at the popular Spanish-language television network, […]

Exploring CBD American Shaman Tomah: Your Gateway to Wellness

• February 23, 2024

In the ever-expanding landscape of CBD products, CBD American Shaman Tomah stands out as a beacon of quality, transparency, and efficacy. As a trusted provider […]

Uncovering the Origin of John Ryder: A Mystery Solved

• December 29, 2023

John Ryder has long been a mysterious figure, with little known about his origins or background. However, recent research and investigations have shed light on […]

• Digital Marketing
• Food & Nutrition
• Home Improvement

The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry

Table of Contents

Introduction 

The Power of Personal Writing: We all have pivotal moments in our lives – events and experiences that shape who we are.  Putting these moments into words, especially at a young age, can be incredibly challenging yet rewarding. This is the story of how a personal essay I wrote in high school elicited an unexpected reaction from my English teacher. Through vivid details and raw emotion, my article on losing my father to cancer moved my teacher to tears. This experience taught me the power of heartfelt writing in expressing grief, inspiring strength and empathy, and forging human connection.

Chapter 1:  The Assignment That Started It All 

The Seeds of My Essay Are Planted It was the Spring of my junior year and the last assignment in my AP English Language class. For the final essay, my teacher, Ms. Thompson, told us we could write about any personal experience that has significantly shaped our lives. I stayed up that night, sifting through memories, moments, and milestones. Then it hit me – the most painful yet transformative event was undoubtedly my father’s battle with lung cancer. His diagnosis when I was 14, followed by the grueling treatments, his inspiring strength, and ultimately his death just before my 16th birthday.

Brainstorming the Outline 

I started by jotting down memories and moments that stood out from my dad’s cancer journey. His initial diagnosis, telling me he was proud of me throughout treatment, gifting me his watch when he went into hospice care, and our final goodbye hug. I noted the sights, smells, and conversations word for word. I wanted to immerse readers fully in those difficult yet precious times. After compiling pages of notes, I made an outline categorizing everything into a narrative arc highlighting my dad’s diagnosis, treatment, Final goodbye, and death. This Outline became my roadmap.

Why This Topic? 

Writing has always been cathartic, a way to process emotions and make sense of experiences. I also wanted to honor my dad and share a glimpse into the incredible person that he was. Most importantly, relating the universal experience of losing a parent could help readers going through similar grief feel less alone. By bravely sharing my vulnerability, I aimed to inspire strength and comfort in others.

Chapter 2:  Crafting the Essay 

Pulling Together the First Draft Staring at the blinking cursor on the blank Word document, I was initially overwhelmed . How could I possibly translate profound grief into words on a page? Where do I even start? I took a deep breath, referred to my Outline, and recounted memories. The day my dad first told me about his stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. The exhaustion in his eyes after radiation and chemo sessions. He’d proclaim his inspiring mantra, “We can and we will!” after vomiting from treatments.

The scenes flowed one after another, transporting me back to those difficult moments. I found myself sobbing as I typed, almost reliving the experiences. After hours of typing furiously with tears streaming down my face, I had a five-page first draft chronicling my dad’s cancer battle. It was raw, honest, and Only the beginning.

The Revision Process 

I let the essay marinate for a few days before rereading it with fresh eyes. With more objectivity, I could see areas that needed refinement and reworking. Some scenes required more specifics, while others got bogged down in unnecessary details. With my teacher’s feedback and countless rounds of editing, I chiseled away, shaping the essay into a sculpted story. I focused on striking a balance between being descriptive yet concise emotive yet subtle. After about two weeks of working iteratively, I had crafted a powerful 2000-word personal narrative I was ready to share.

Chapter 3:  Presenting My Essay 

The Moment of Truth On the last day of our English class, all students presented our final essays in front of the course and Ms. Thompson. Adrenaline pumping, I volunteered to go first. I was incredibly nervous, hands shaking as I stood before my peers, clutching my essay on crumpled notebook paper. I cleared my throat and dove in, returning to the memories that inspired my writing. My voice quivered, describing my dad’s hospice care and death, but I pressed on, determined to make it through.

A Powerful Reaction 

Glancing up occasionally, I gauged my teacher’s and fellow students’ reactions as I read. Most sat silently, a few dabbing tears from their eyes. As expected, reliving my dad’s death elicited an emotional response. What I didn’t expect, however, was the reaction when I finished. Ms. Thompson, typically reserved and stoic, was quietly crying, tears streaming down her cheeks. The room fell silent until she suddenly stood up and hugged me, sobbing into my shoulder. I was in sheer disbelief. This essay struck an emotional chord, and her unusually vulnerable reaction moved me.

Praise and Positive Feedback 

When Ms. Thompson finally composed herself, she praised me. She said that was the most moving, well-written essay she had ever read from a student. She loved the juxtaposition depicting my dad’s strength and perseverance despite his declining health. The way I wove in sensory details to fully immerse readers in the most impactful scenes. And how the linear structure smoothly flowed, bringing readers on my grief journey with me. Her effusive praise and equally effusive tears in front of classmates left me proud.

Chapter 4:  Reflecting On My Essay’s Impact 

An Unexpected Connection through Grief While I set out to write this essay for personal healing and to honor my dad, I formed a special connection with Ms. Thompson. She later told me that she also lost her dad to cancer when she was a teenager. My essay brought up those feelings of grief she still carries today. By eloquently relaying my own experience, my writing resonated on a profoundly personal level with her. We formed a unique student-teacher bond built on shared grief and the human experiences that unite us all.

Writing as Healing 

Beyond making a lasting impression on Ms. Thompson and earning an easy A in her class, the experience of writing this essay taught me so much. About grief, about growth, about connecting to others through vulnerability. Translating emotions and memories into words forces you to process and better understand them. Like carefully examining each artifact found amongst rubble and debris. Sorting through the painful shards allows you to rebuild better. That’s what this essay provided me – a way to sift through grief, find meaning, and rebuild after loss.

This essay also reminded me that openly sharing our stories, no matter how difficult, can inspire remarkable strength and empathy in others. Human experiences, no matter how profoundly unique, still contain universal threads that weave us together. Pull one, and we all feel the tug. This was certainly true with Ms. Thompson. My essay tugged at the grief embedded in her heart and compelled an emotional response. By generously giving my words and tears to readers, I can reciprocate the comfort I found in the shared stories of others.

The Power of Personal Writing The essay about my dad’s battle with cancer will always be one of my proudest achievements.  Technically well-constructed yet emotionally resonant, it exemplified my strengths as a writer. More importantly, though, it served as a cathartic vessel carrying my grief, a way to honor my dad’s life, and a piece inspiring empathy and understanding in others. The unexpectedly powerful reaction from my English teacher is something I will remember forever. Her tears watered the seeds of healing planted by this essay and cultivated emotional connections blossoming from difficult experiences. This taught me that courageously sharing our personal stories helps make the vast human experience feel less lonely. And that is something magical.

About author

Aman tufail articles.

Related posts

How to ship a boat to poland from the us, igniting imagination: nurturing creativity at edinburgh's imaginate festival, floryvulyura 24h: redefining floral grandeur 24/7, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Teen goes viral as essay that made teacher cry has the internet in tears

Chronicles of Learnia

Journey with me through the wardrobe into the magical world of teaching...

Thursday, October 1, 2015

The things that make an english teacher cry (happy tears) , part 1.

No comments:

Post a comment.

Loading to The Essay That Made My Teacher Cry By Ryan Harman....