Influences

She probably has no idea of the influence she had on my life. I have no photos or memory of the physical characteristics of my third grade teacher and yet, I remember how lovely her heart was.

Mrs. K made a lasting impression on my tender heart. She made me feel loved. Special. She was interested in me as a unique individual. She created dreams in my heart.

I can vividly recall the beautiful rose she gave me one day with a handwritten note. She said I was a special young lady and that God had great plans for me.

To this day I remember that her favorite Bible verse was I Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon Him for He cares for you." I am so glad she had us memorize that verse. It was also third grade when I learned Ephesians 4:32. "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

In my minds eye, I can visualize the classroom with the spiral bound notebook. On the notebook were written in large print the words to the song "Blessed Assurance." Written behind that song were the words to the song "This is the Day that the Lord has made." I sing those songs to my little boys now.

Yet another memory of that year was a special field trip to Mrs. K's house house to make Popcorn Balls. Yummy.

It was probably around third grade that I determined that I too wanted to be a teacher. Most likely, because my teacher made it fun. I did eventually realize that dream and even spent a few years teaching third grade.

With time my personal dreams changed. They are now fulfilled many times over in my day to day life with my own children. Yet, I am glad for the birth of those dreams. I am thankful God brought Mrs. K into my life for that year. I needed the love and affection she showed me.
I have no idea what became of my former teacher, but I am grateful she demonstrated the love of Christ to me.