And something quite lovely to post about. After the vitriolic attack of teachers and public workers by FOX, the Tea Party and most Conservatives since Gov. Walker pulled a fast one, here's a Tea Party husband who now looks at his wife the teacher in
March 17, 2011

And something quite lovely to post about. After the vitriolic attack of teachers and public workers by FOX, the Tea Party and most Conservatives since Gov. Walker pulled a fast one, here's a Tea Party husband who now looks at his wife the teacher in a very new light.

Anti-teacher climate humbles the conservative husband of a Cleveland educator: Connie Schultz

Like most people, I could easily rattle off the names of several teachers who changed my life by the way they lived theirs. I'll spare you that walk down my memory lane.

Instead, I want to quote another self-described conservative who had a lot to say about character. His recent e-mail to me echoed the sentiments expressed by many readers who object to various states' legislative attacks against public school teachers, including those in Ohio. These letters and e-mails are not from teachers, but from those who love them.

This particular reader is a business analyst. He made it clear that, while our dads held similar blue-collar jobs, he and I grew up to disagree on many issues. He's not a fan.

But he does share my high regard for the men and women paid by taxpayers to teach America's children. He's been married to one of those dedicated public servants in Cleveland for nearly 14 years.

"We spend tons of money on supplies for the kids," he wrote. "I have begged her to leave Cleveland and she refuses to because it is her calling. I should be so lucky."

To insulate this man and his wife from the current blood sport of teacher-bashing, I won't name them. He did give me permission to share the recent letter of apology he wrote to his wife:

Dear Honey,

I'm sorry.

I am a conservative husband, belong to the Tea Party and I voted for John Kasich. I have been married to a Cleveland teacher for almost 14 years and my vote let her down.

I apologize:

For letting people tease you about having the summer off and not asking them to thank you for the tough days ahead that begin in early August. I know for a fact you work more hours in those 10 months than many people do in 12. All those hours are earned.

For complaining that my Sunday is limited with you because you must work.

For making you think you have to ask permission to buy a student socks, gloves and hats.

For not understanding that you walk through a metal detector for work.

For leaving dirty dishes in the sink [when you awoke] for your 4 a.m. work session. I should know you have to prepare.

For thinking you took advantage of the taxpayers. Our governor continues to live off the taxpayer dole, not you.

For counting the time and money you spend to buy school supplies.

For not saying "thank you" enough for making the world and me better.

I love you.

Talk about a lesson in character.

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