Janice Melton

My Father and the Teachable Moments

2020

This dream first came to me when I was seven years old, after the assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy, and it still comes to me today. It appears to be my father’s funeral, but it is not scary, nor does it make me sad. It feels joyous as those who knew and respected my father surround a long yellow school bus that carries his body.

A Black man born and raised in Los Angeles; my father was a teacher. During his long career, he taught children during the day and adults at night. He truly loved his vocation. His quiet demeanor commanded respect and authority, yet he also offered empathy and guidance to those wanting to learn. He taught people to help themselves. He was politically active and felt compelled to take me to the Watts Riots when I was a small child so I could witness history. I’ve come to realize that our time together, whether via structured activities or impromptu occasions, were often teachable moments.