Changed Lives

Last year at this time I was volunteering at my church's Vacation Bible School, and wrote about a friend J, who needed teachers to recognize his special gifts.  Because my friend Debbie and I stopped to see how J was unique, he had a fantastic week.  I realized then that by serving and giving of my time, I made a difference in that one child.  It was my way of paying it forward.

It's that time of year again, and I had another one of those "special moments!"this morning at VBS.  A young man, much taller than I (who isn't?!) was picking up his sister, when he smiled and said Hi.  Smiling back, I heard him say to his sister, "Is that Mrs. Archer?"  So, I stopped and said, Yes!  I recognized him, but his name was on the tip of my tongue, but couldn't find it.  My first year in Dublin, I had this young man in my class and now he is in college, running track, and made the Nationals this year.  Amazing, on two levels:  1) He still recognizes me or I haven't changed since then! 2) He has come full circle and taken advantage of all life has and is making a difference in the athletic field.  His twin brother, from another class then, is playing football at another university.

What a great moment when he hugged me, introduced me to his sister, and shared with me his life celebrations.   Teachers, we are changing lives! We may not see the fruits of our labor immediately, but we are changing lives every day.  Remember that during those frustrating, overwhelming moments in September and recognize we are making a difference.
To Whom Much is Given, Much is Expected.