Mr. Keating’s encouragement, guidance, and teaching on how to listen to oneself and not be afraid to question the norm were initiated for all the right reasons. Neither the kids, the parents, nor Keating’s peers were ready for his leadership and his view on the fundamental human right to pursue one’s own path. Some kids got lost along the way, the parents could not understand the need for Keating’s lessons, and the peers felt threatened, as the mere idea of considering a different approach could shatter the institution.
Keating was so good, yet so underappreciated, burdened by the wrong time. Or perhaps he was one of the greatest examples of how one person can make a difference by influencing new generations to look at life differently—through love and passion for poetry.
His practical teaching was so simple, comprehensive, and eye-opening.
He and Neil were a sacrifice that the times demanded to endure a change