Why Teachers Teach

Granted, I've never taught for a living, so I don't really know the heart and mind of every teacher. But I had a moment today that may explain how they put up with the parents, low pay, long hours, and crazy administration. Watching a child (especially your own) learn something or watching them improve a skill right in front of you is quite amazing.
The brief time that I taught a few ballet classes during my college years allowed me the opportunity to see children improve their abilities. And that was quite fun and rewarding. But I guess watching your own child go thru the process is even more heart-touching.
At any rate, it brought to mind the feeling that a person who teaches as a regular j.o.b. must experience when she sees a little mind improve itself.