It's a small world, baby

 A while back Vox asked a question about our favorite class in school. Not feeling very inspired, I was all set to skip it until Scott wrote about his favorite teacher. Now this was something I could relate to and I wrote a post about Larry Vilaubi, my high school humanities teacher who not only opened my eyes about life, but who also saved it. That story is here.

 

When I was writing the post I was thinking how nice it would be if Larry could actually read it. After all I was 18 when all this happened and I can't say for sure that I did a good job of thanking him for everything he did. But 25 years later, I had no idea where he was.

 

Back 1989 I had seen an insurance commercial about Loma Prieta featuring him and his family, and I knew it was Larry when I heard him refer to the insurance company as a bunch of "really nice bean counters." The commercial only aired once or twice. (Insurance company wimps.) Aside from that, I had no idea what became of him and his family.

 

As you all know, Vox is still invitation only, and really what chance was there that Larry was A) in here, or B) stalking his former students from 25 years ago and therefore up to date on my blog, or C) was friends with someone who not only read my blog but who also knew him? Higher than I thought as it turns out.

 

The other day I received this:

 

Karen,

 

So a friend of mine clued me in to your blog and the story about Pompeii. I was blown away. I have an equally vivid memory of that day and of nearly losing you. It's amazing how an "expanded presence" memory can remain so vivid for so long. Anyway, I'm glad you didn't die. Also, thanks for the kind words -- I really miss teaching Humanities and making those kinds of wonderful connections with kids.

 

Larry

 

Surprised is not the word. Astonished, perhaps. Elated would be another good one. Really happy.

 

So what did I do? I invited him into Vox. I don't know if he'll take me up on it, but I do know that someone who can write after 25 years "anyway, I'm glad you didn't die" is someone whose voice I want to hear more regularly.

 

Cue music: It's a world of laughter, a world of tears, it's a world of hope…

 

P.s. Thanks for saving my life, Larry.

Comments

[Laurel]

Wow, amazing! (I actually got chills when I read his email to you.)

[jenny]

While I find your story touching, it actually fills me with dread as to someone finding my blog. I doubt it would be a happy type reunion moment, more like a, gee whiz I'm fired moment. Brrr!

[Lilia]

I didn't see your best teacher qotd until now, what an amazing story. I
hope that Larry does take up your Vox invitation, he sounds like a
fantastic and caring person.