My Take on an Old Proverb

As a teacher, it isn't really an issue whether my students know or know not whether they know or know not. However...

• A student who doesn't try, doesn't succeed, and doesn't care is probably a dead horse, but it doesn't matter. Keep beating him.
• A student who doesn't try, doesn't succeed, but does care is an opportunity. Wake him.
• A student who doesn't try, doesn't care, but succeeds is wasted talent. Shame him.
• A student who doesn't succeed, doesn't care, but tries is dancing reluctantly on someone else's leash. Free him.
• A student who tries and succeeds but doesn't care is snowing his way through the system. Scorn him.
• A student who tries and cares but doesn't succeed is a student in need. Help him.
• A student who cares and succeeds but doesn't try is missing his calling. Encourage him.
• A student who cares, tries, and succeeds is probably a figment of your imagination, but if he is real, consider yourself lucky. Honor him.

(Should I do one for teachers next?)