My experience influenced a very dear former student of mine. He cried when
I was removed from school. I was one of his favorite teachers. That same
summer when I went through so much "stuff" and kept praying and praying ---
My former student had "a calling" (I think it was that same summer -- I am
trying to remember the year -- he aid 16 and he will be 18 this year).
This is a young African American student who was a minor discipline problem
in fifth grade -- but it was no big deal. I even told him today he stole
something from me -- and of course he had forgotten all about it now (we
laughed because he paid it back ---and with interest -- I OWE him now -- He
has made me succesful). I continued to work with him in middle school....
He did some ornery things -- but gave me Little Debbie Cakes at Christmas.
And boy did he do something ornery when we made our mancala boards
(giggle). GRRRRR --- Now I want that board back. My administrator has the
board. "Praiseworthy" (I won't list his real name-- but that is what it
means) put a rather large "you - know- what" on the Chiwara. Well I was
able to grind the large organ off. My husband and I stained the mancala
board and I presented it as a gift to my administrator.... I see it every
time I enter his office.
Well.... if asked what I want out of all of this -- I would like that board
back -- sigh.
I am so proud of "Praiseworthy" -- and now I know I am Successful.....My
influence has helped bring a child into the ministry. Let us ALL pray for
him that he is able to go to school and fulfill his mission. We all have
some mission in life. WOW! I found part of mine already.
He came in after school today and gave me a BIG hug.and he even kissed my
cheek goodbye. I told him I would see him again -- time and time again. I
will visit his church in the near future. I told him he is even RICHER than
I am. His only wish is to influence others, too in "The Way" and he said he
will even do it for free. I told him he will need money to live -- so it is
OK to accept something for his time His time is valuable. This young man
quoted scriptures so beautifully and accurately.... He was just so amazing
I talked to him for quite some time how he may be able to bring his
influence to others around him -- but to leave the Bible verses out when
not in church (some folks don't like being "preached to"). I told him if he
needed help paraphrasing his message to email me. He knows where to find
me.
I am so very proud of this gift to the future of my community. Let us all
try to influence kids that there are some things in life more important
than the dollar. This young man has it all!
Today I worked with "Handsome"during academic assist...."Handsome" is a
fine African American boy -- who is Muslim. I told him how happy I am that
his God is the same God as my God.and I am so glad that his way is my
way.... When students understand the way all faiths are similar -- we gain
more understanding. Folks -- all religions really have a way about them..It
is The Way...Just keep spreading the way --- and folks will follow you!
So sing along...."I will make you fishers of men.....fishers of
men....fishers of men. I will make you fishers of men - women too - if you
follow me" -- Yes I have gone fishing before!.....and yes he squirmed a
little bit. Boy did I have fun at lunch today when some kids asked me if I
ever went fishing! At that time I didn't even know I had helped to reel one
in.
