If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you can balance your checkbook, thank a teacher. If you can play the piano, stand in a line, wait your turn, or even share your life with someone, thank a teacher, because we were not born knowing these things.

We don't really thank teachers enough, do we? And yet I can't think of people more vital to our future. You may be a doctor, lawyer, real estate agent or banker. You might be doing something really, really important, but I have news for you: What you're doing isn't as important -- as sacred, as noble -- as teaching a child.

Many teachers love their students, just as parents love their children. Recently, in Chesterton, a school teacher and his father (also a retired school employee) lost their lives while trying to rescue two children. Mark Thanos, 48, and John Thanos, 74, died on Sept. 14 trying to save a boy who'd fallen into a rain-swollen ditch and was sucked into a 36-inch culvert under the street.

This selfless act of kindness in my mind demonstrates unsurpassed courage and heroism that is shared among parents, teachers and those who love children.

The lesson of their lives is as inspiring as is the lesson of their ultimate sacrifice. I ask myself, could I do it? And I ask you ... how many of you could do it? And I don't want an answer. That's why I say their bravery; their heroism is beyond belief. That is one of the reasons why we must tell the world what these two men did.

To me, the actions of Mark & John Thanos embody all that is n and has been n good, honorable and courageous in our teachers and child advocates since the beginning of our great country. Their conduct confirms to me that, as a people, we have the ability to reach our highest potential through service to others. Each of us must look upward, to show respect for all children and the value of life itself.

"The future is in the hands of those who can give tomorrow's generations valid reasons to live and hope." This quote, delivered centuries ago by Teilard de Chardin, a French geologist/paleontologist.

I love to advocate for children for so many reasons. I enjoy the opportunity to interact with intelligent, diverse and curious students and their teachers. Mr. Chardin captured in his phrase the core of why I am passionate about youth work- the possibility that "valid reason to live and hope" can be instilled in the youth with whom I interact. But I believe deeply in the philosophy that to be successful in the application of these tools, the students need to have an understanding of their own worth, potential, and innate ability to be successful.

As adults, we are granted the unique privilege to enter a child's heart as we explore and expose them to the vast world in which they live. While studying new ideas and concepts, we must help them see the good in the world, and more importantly, the good within themselves.

The opinions expressed solely are those of the writer. Jennifer Wright is the director of resource development for the Boys & Girls clubs of Porter County.