Would you rather have a good but strict teacher or a less talented but fun one?
I learned little from my strict teachers because I was too afraid to approach them. Therefore, were they really good at being teachers?
I didn't think it was fun learning nothing from a less-than-talented one (which would include ones that had simply given up on teaching).
To me, the best teachers are the ones who are firm and fun. They are firm on their expectations, methods of discipline, and promote excellence. They are fun because they know when to lighten the load with a smile, a joke, a word of encouragement. They see potential in every situation and motivate their students to own their mistakes as well as their successes. They are the mentors we never forget. They are the kind of teacher I hope to be.