Today I share a story that spoke to my heart, recently;


Love; The One Creative Force

"Spread love everywhere you go; first of all in your own house.  Give love to your
children, to your wife or husband, to a next-door neighbor...Let no one ever come
to you without leaving better and happier.  Be the living expression of God's
kindness, kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile,
kindness in your warm greeting."   ~ Mother Teresa


" A college professor had his sociology class go into the Baltimore slums to get case
histories of 200 young boys.  They were asked to write an evaluation of each
boy's future.  In every case the students wrote, "He hasn't got a chance."  Twenty-five
years later another sociology professor came across the earlier study.  He had his
students follow up on the project to see what had happened to these boys.  With the
exception of twenty boys who had moved away or died, the students learned that
176 of the remaining 180 had achieved more than ordinary success as lawyers,
doctors, and businessmen.
   The professor was astounded and decided to pursue the matter further.  Fortunately,
all the men were in area and he was able to ask each one, "How do you account for
your success?"  In each case the reply came with feeling, "There was a teacher."
   The teacher was still alive, so he sought her out and asked the old but still alert
lady what magic formula she had used to pull the boys out of the slums into
successful achievement?
   The teacher's eyes sparkled and her lips broke into a gentle smile.  "It is really
very simple," she said.  "I loved those boys."

Written by Eric Butterworth, and published in the book, "Chicken Soup for the Soul".

On Friday, it was my 61st birthday.  I was blessed to share it with family and friends.

We spent a few hours with our middle daughter, her husband, and their children,
at a seafood restaurant near their home. They ordered fruit and sherbet, instead
of cake, because they knew that is what I'd like.

Our daughter and son-in-law are both celebrating their 30th birthdays this year. 
It is always fun to spend time with them, even if it is only for a few hours.

And with two of our special grandchildren.  Sitting in a restaurant can only be
tolerated for so long. An animated child's video now at times, replaces toys.

In my heart, I am so thankful for the grace, love, kindness and mercy that
God bestows on us daily.  I pray always, that I can share the same characteristics
with those I come in contact with every day. God's love does make a difference!

And, in one way or another, we are all teachers.