A letter from Sabrina Hawkins, a journalism student at Corona del Mar from 1989 to 1991
Hello,
I hope that this email makes it to Linda Mook's family.
My name is Sabrina Hawkins, Corona del Mar class of 1991.
Linda Mook touched so many people in her life. It was truly a wonderful experience to learn from her. I am proud to say that I was part of the CdM yearbook staff for 2 years.
The knowledge that she passed on made a difference in my life. Since
graduation, I have become a television producer in New York. I love it
here (been here for 8 years) but I always like to look into what is
going on in my hometown, Newport Beach. I have traveled so much the past
year, this is the first time that I have heard the heartbreaking news.
Today, I was truly taken by surprise when I discovered that one of my
favorite teachers passed away. I stopped what I was doing so that I
could write you.
When students graduate and move out into the world, all of those
inspiring words are remembered- sometimes at the most unusual times.
If
I was writing an article or script for the millionth time, Mrs. Mook's
kind words did occasionally echo in my mind. Every time I have to fit
copy onto a page, the yearbook memories definitely come flying back.
It
was more that putting a book together, it was being part of something
larger than that- the yearbook! Something that generations will look
back on for years to come. She had a passion for her work, and it
showed.
Linda Mook made a huge impact on my life. She was a very special woman,
with a very giving heart. Working late on the yearbook was actually fun,
and now having a life full of deadlines- I don't say that often. The
beginning of my creative career came from her class. It is an awesome
feeling to share your ideas with a trusting person who would give you
feedback and spark something. She would smile and walk you through the
process. Lots of hours were dedicated to her classroom. How many hours?
So many that my sister, my brother and even my parents have all picked
me up from the Ebbtide office.
I am sure that one of the greatest rewards of being a teacher is influencing a student, even if it is just one.
Well, I am one... of the thousands of people that she has influenced.
I
wish Linda Mook's family the best and she will always be remembered.
So
from my family, we send our deepest condolences.
Thank you, Linda Mook just for being yourself.
Sincerely,
Sabrina Hawkins
Auction HD, Associate Producer