be still my heart

So, the other day when I picked up my students in the morning, the sweet, bright girl walking at the front of the line said:

Student: How are you today, Mrs. Robinson? (so polite)

Me: Oh, pretty good. How are you?

Student: Good. (pause) I'm ready to learn this morning.

It brought tears to my eyes! You'd think all 7-year olds would be so eager and ready to learn, but sadly they are not. This girl is, however, so even just that makes my job worthwhile.