“A tongue that brings healing is like a tree of life . . .” -- Proverbs 15:4
Every student adored Mrs. Walters! She taught, she inspired, sometimes she even consoled. Hers was more than a job; it was her calling.
One day she asked her class to list the names of each of the other students on several sheets of paper – leaving ample space between each name. Next she told them to write down the nicest thing they could say about each of their classmates. They seemed to enjoy the assignment and were eager to hand in their completed work.
She sorted the comments all weekend and on Monday, Mrs. Walters smiled as she gave each student his or her individualized list of their peers’ remarks. Before long, the entire class was beaming! "Really?" one whispered. "I never knew that I meant much to anyone!" "I didn't know people admired me," was also frequently overheard.
Years later, Cheryl, one of the students was stricken with cancer and died after a courageous battle. Mrs. Walters tried to remember that child as a teenager. But time passes so quickly she thought; the years all run together now. She attended the funeral anyway, feeling a bit ashamed at her failing memories.
After the service, many of Cheryl’s former classmates gathered outside the church. They invited Mrs. Walters to join them – they certainly remembered her! Cheryl’s husband approached the group, especially eager to speak with the favored teacher.
Opening his billfold, he carefully removed two worn pieces of notebook paper that had obviously been taped and refolded many times. "This was in Cheryl’s Bible,” he said. “I thought you might recognize it."
It came rushing back to her now. She knew without looking that those papers were the ones on which she had listed all the good things Cheryl’s classmates had written about her.
“Thank you for doing that," he said. "She cherished it, especially during her illness.”
The classmates drew closer. Charlie grinned sheepishly, "I still have my list too. It's in my top dresser drawer." "Me too," Karyn said. "Right here in my purse; it’s always been with me!” Laura chimed in, “OMG, we must have all saved our lists."
The simple exercise had accomplished its purpose – friendships woven tightly together like a beautiful tapestry. Mrs. Walters reminded them of her oft-given advice: Many people will enter and exit your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart. Use your head when controlling yourself . . . To handle others, use your heart. Teaching was her life’s mission – and she was grateful for His inspiration.
Teacher – we know that life on earth is finite – it begins and it ends. We never know when life will cease. Help us to love with no regrets, and to express our affection for those dear to us before it’s too late. Amen
