Leist had passion for students

To the editor:Thank you for honoring one of my heroes in life, Nick Leist. When I was in school from 1991 to 1997, I had the pleasure and honor of being under the direction of one of the most wonderful and influential people in my life. Mr. Leist fueled my passion for music. He did this not by waving a baton, but by displaying his passion for caring about his students. I consider myself one of the many lucky lives he has touched over his tenure as an educator.

I remember vividly that the movie "Mr. Holland's Opus" came out in my sophomore year, and immediately it reminded me of Mr. Leist. Knowing his talent as a musician, I asked him, "Mr. Leist, why don't you write a symphony?" I will always remember his response: "You all are my symphony."

I think those five words were the most heartfelt I had ever heard. He did not need a symphony to be remembered, only the knowledge that he made a difference in our lives. Mr. Leist, you certainly succeeded, and I have you to thank for not only teaching me a passion for music, but also a passion for life.

JOHN LITZELFELNER, Jackson