I read about former student Ryan Cleary today

I read today that a former student of mine, Ryan Cleary, has resigned from the NDP. Good for him. I've no doubt it was an eye opener for him (as he says) but I think journalism is his passion. In fact I think he can do more for Newfoundland politics with his pen than with his mouth. However his mouth is pretty darn good too.
I remember Ryan as a student at St Francis High School in Harbour Grace. Quite the thinker and in those days of one-finger typing and black ink stencils, I moderated our newspaper called "The Spindrift". Ryan was clever, a go getter, and just a smart kid. In fact he was more than just a smart kid...he was intelligent. I liked that about him. Years later when I read The Independent I enjoyed his articles and his ability to slice and dice and bring out the full flavour on the political scene. His keen eye and Johnathan Swift style of writing made me think. Journalism was and is his passion for sure!
As a teacher you hear lots of stories of former students and what they are doing these days. Some are opening mines and some are opening minds. Ryan Cleary has opened mine for a long time. I look forward to his next illuminating article.
Now, where in the old trunk did I put a copy of a 1977 Spindrift, I wonder?