When the author accepted his first college teaching position, he never really gave much thought to how a class should begin. In this article, the author reflects on his teaching experiences and recognizes now that how his classes begin is important. The students' comments suggest that the ritual of silence and time for reflection does make a difference. It wasn't until the Bundy Aid Program forced the issue at his college that he paid attention to this aspect of teaching. Not having a ritual that separates the beginning of class from the busyness of life is a mistake. But not just anything will do. Having a minute or two of silence may not work at many institutions, especially those in the public sector where silence is frequently construed as prayer. Every teacher has to find his or her own ritual. Perhaps asking the students would be a good place to start.