Although well-meaning, some methods of training approach teaching as a one-size-fits-all approach. Yet, there are myriad techniques for teaching and no one method works for all teachers or all students. Indeed, good teachers use a variety of techniques. Unfortunately, search for objective standards by which to measure quality teaching has overlooked the fact that the root of teaching lies not in simple methodology, but in the messy business of human relationships. The inclusion of "intangibles," like trust and warmth, in program assessments hints at the deepening knowledge of the ways teachers' qualities influence their student's success. While none of these qualities can be taught in a traditional teacher-to-student format, they can be cultivated by paying attention to the inner aspects that enable teachers to demonstrate these traits. In this article, the author explores three themes: (1) purpose; (2) creativity; and (3) wonder. To cultivate the spirit of a teacher is a challenge because it requires a shift in thinking. No longer is the goal simply technical mastery, but an inner quality that resists definition. To adopt this mindset means taking seriously the inner life of a teacher, even putting it ahead of other attributes and skill sets. Traditional training methods and requirements are important; certainly teachers need skills and these can be enhanced by having a variety of techniques at their fingertips. One cannot, however, reduce the effectiveness of a teacher purely to her knowledge. (Contains 1 resource and 2 online resources.)