This is Ron with your Motivational Message:
Recently, my good friend, Pastor Don, was talking to me about his little 4th grade lunch buddy. He and his buddy would meet during lunch to encourage each other and discuss life. Don got an idea during one of their conversations and later asked me, “Hey, would you be interested in speaking to my friend’s class?” he asked. I immediately responded, “Well, it IS what I do!” However, inside I was thinking, “I haven’t done too many classroom presentations in awhile.” It’s a bit more of an up-close and personal, in-your-face, no-fooling-these-kids situation.
Before I knew it, the day came and I found myself in front of nearly 30 children. I shared my life story and told them about DIME (which you can read about in a previous blog). It was a powerful experience for the children and me. You could tell that the children had learned something valuable. I don’t know why I was so nervous! The class and teacher’s acceptance truly calmed my nerves. Good thing my knees don’t knock. Twenty years later the moment still makes me nervous, but thanks to the teacher and the kids, we all had a great time.
Yesterday evening, the gray in my day turned to sunshine, when Pastor Don brought over a spiral-bound book created by the teacher and her class. On the front was a picture of the class and inside on every page there was a typed letter with a drawing from each student. To my amazement, at the bottom of their letters, the children used a pen clenched between their teeth to sign their name. Every bit of inspiration that I had sent their way was sent back to me ten-fold. I so appreciated what they had to say that I wanted to share their encouragement with you. I call this “give and you shall receive, bless and you will be blessed.” Now go and make it a good day!
A collage of the children's paintings
A few letters from the class. Click image to enlarge.
To your inspiration,
Ron
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Ron,
This is was such a great letter. I love the art from the kids. Thank you for your transparent musings. You don’t shy away from being vulnerable and revealing how you felt about situations. It’s a real encouragement. God bless! Cindy
Very cool, Ron! Would have brought anyone to tears.