Don't get me wrong.  I LOVE teaching.  I LOVE the kids.  I LOVE my summers and vacations.  I HAVE an amazing class full of wonderful learners eager for the new knowledge I bestow upon them on a daily basis.  I LOVE the smiles.  I LOVE the lightbulb moments (yes, you know those happen).  I teach because I CAN.  I was made to make a difference in the life of a child.  No I am not a cliche.  I know that I do.  I know this from the parents wanting me to have the sibling, the ex students coming to visit, the Facebook requests from parents and ex students.  These make my day.  I get flowers on a daily basis from kindergartners.  I receive tackle hugs from behind.  Waves from across the cafeteria.  These are the reasons I know someone, me, is making a difference.  So now that I sound like the most conceded teacher on the face of the planet. :)  I have to tell you that I have to remind myself of these things daily.  I have to because when the email comes from the irate parent.  When the tests are graded and there is no progress.  When the principal shows up at my door and tells me to come see them.  I have to remind myself why I am in the classroom and why I do what I do.  I have to say to myself, I make a difference, my students need me.  So I ask you "How do you know you make a difference?"