Full circle

The Story Behind the Limerick

Yesterday’s sail was one of those full-circle moments.

Star student Carlo, who I taught in his Intro to Sailing course a little while back, is now continuing on to the next level. I joined the session to shadow Bob — our wonderfully entertaining master instructor — as part of my own ongoing instructor development.

Bob and I have sailed together quite a bit over the years, and he was actually the one who tested me for parts of my instructor certification last year. Learning from him is always equal parts skill-building and storytelling — with a steady background soundtrack of sea shanties and, of course, limericks.

Today, Carlo showed up with one of his own!

It was one of those small, unexpected moments that remind me why I love teaching — watching students grow, reconnecting in new roles, and occasionally becoming part of the story yourself.