Mrs. Parks, a sixth-grade science teacher, posed a question to her class that would spark a memorable exchange. “Which human body part increases to ten times its size when stimulated?” she asked. The room fell silent, with no one daring to respond.
That was until little Mary stood up, her face flushed with indignation. “You shouldn’t be asking us a question like that!” she exclaimed. “I’m going to tell my parents, and they’ll tell the principal, and you’ll get fired!” Mary’s outburst was met with an awkward silence, but Mrs. Parks remained unfazed.
Undeterred, Mrs. Parks repeated the question, “Which body part increases to 10 times its size when stimulated?” Mary’s mouth dropped open, and she whispered to her classmates, “She’s going to get in big trouble!” But Mrs. Parks continued to ignore Mary’s antics and encouraged the class to respond.
Finally, Billy stood up, looking nervous, and answered, “The pupil of the eye.” Mrs. Parks praised Billy for his correct response, then turned her attention to Mary. With a hint of amusement, she said, “As for you, young lady, I have three things to say: One, you have a dirty mind. Two, you didn’t read your homework. And three, one day you’ll be very, very disappointed.” Mary’s face turned bright red as the class erupted into laughter, and Mrs. Parks continued with the lesson, leaving Mary to ponder the wisdom of her words.
