SUSAN HOUSTON
Narrative Lessons
Every semester I assign the personal narrative essay as a first, low-stakes essay. A test, really, of the students’ abilities and a way to learn their voice in writing. Without fail, I get the “Big Game”, the “Parents’ Divorce” and “Death of Family Member.” However, even as they are expected, both latter two types of essays above also remind me of the pain and tenacity students have to get beyond life’s tragedy and still have a hopeful outlook. These bright, mostly young people have seen the worst of what life can dish out. Marriages breaking and death are two of the most stressful events in a person’s experience. Moving and illness are also among these top contenders. And yet, they are in class, spilling their pain onto paper for me to observe, critique and correct. Writing about their honest struggles that their (sometimes) innocent selves grapple with, and circumstances that bring the seemingly great among us low. What astonishing bravery! What hope they have! What an incredible privilege for me to witness their lives.
Being vulnerable in any new situation is distressing, and therefore, the great faith they have in me reading their stories and allowing me to comment on form or substance is an honor. I hope I am not too difficult a critic, as I try to blend in the sweet with the bitter. Some story, every semester, brings me to tears. And many have me laughing out loud. It’s difficult to refrain from simply indulging in the pleasure of the story and not leave feedback. But the craft must be honed, and the stories can be improved. I hope they know how much I admire them; how I see a bright future ahead of them. And how I wish nothing but the best for them.
Susan Houston has taught English for 23 years in the Metro Detroit area. She lives in Brighton with her retired husband and hopes to keep teaching since retirement doesn’t look that interesting yet. They have two older teenaged sons and a goldendoodle to entertain them.
Resilience 