Bound Together, Forever
It has been my privilege and a blessing to work with so many young actors and students along with their families over the past 31 years. I am honored and greatly moved by the out pouring of love and respect shown to me during that time and especially during this past year.
I find myself greatly uncomfortable and embarrassed by all the attention that my retirement has generated, being focused on me instead of where it belongs and for whom it belongs, the talented young performers.
It has been my philosophy and my belief that it is the students who provide the passion, the talent and the life force of any theatrical program or production. While others may guide and direct with a vision in mind, it is the varied talents and skills that each young person shares that creates the richness and beauty found in high school theatre.
I now find myself in the lime light and while filled with gratitude and heart felt appreciation, I am out of my element.
Language is a weak and inadequate messenger for conveying my feelings, but unfortunately it is all I have to use in an attempt express the sincerity, the depth, and the intensity of my emotions.
Teaching has been my life, and the students and their families are my heart.
You all, are my heart. You are my love.
People have asked me how can I stop working with young people? How can I leave?
My reply is, I will never leave you, just as you will never leave me. You are in my heart as I am in yours.
The memories, the joy and the love we share binds our hearts and will keep us always together. And as my life and your life changes, you need to know that forever, you are as close as a pleasant memory or a sweet thought, for love is not limited by time, space or location.
I love you – May God Bless You.
Michael J. Nazelrod
Bound Together, Forever
