During my tenure at Ashland College, we were required to take two religion classes since we were a Brethren affiliate. I had never heard of the Brethren Church before this.
I was blessed to take a class from Professor J.R. Klingensmith. He became my mentor, my favorite teacher of all time.
Years later, I happened upon the book Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. I made it through two pages before I was weeping because I realized that I’d had a “Morrie” and it was Professor Klingensmith. I have carried his lessons with me throughout my life and have incorporated his words of wisdom into my lessons with students. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a Ray Klingensmith in their lives. I am thankful every day that I have.
