Mr phoenix, as I knew him, was my fourth grade teacher. I will always remember him smiling and so eager to teach us and so proud when he could see that we we were actually soaking up the knowledge that he presented to us. "Songs in the key of life" was out that year. We listened to it over and over and learned every word to most songs on the album. As a 10 year old, redhead, freckle faced, white girl I felt privileged that he not only was willing, but  showed pride in teaching me the truth about people, no matter their race. I will always remember what he taught me about life, kindness, racism, acceptance and the ability to speak your truth under any circumstance.