Nine years ago, on the 20th of October, Jackie was a student in a class that I taught. Eight years ago, on that same date her physical life came to an end, all too early. Little was I aware of the lessons that she would leave me with for the rest of my life.
Every year on this day, I do something extra special to honor her memory and the kindness that she exuded. While at a cafe this morning, I was standing behind a couple ordering their breakfast. After they ordered, I asked them if they'd allow me to pay for their breakfast in order to honor a student of mine.
The young lady looked at me with some bewilderment and responded, "Sure, I suppose... but that's a lot of money."
I suppose "a lot" is relative. In comparison to one's life, it is nothing.
The couple said thank you, to which I responded, "No, thank you." :)
I can either dwell on the emptiness and sadness created by Jackie's absence, or I can celebrate what she stood for and the happiness that she brought to others.
It has taken several years, but I have decided to do the latter. The day is just beginning, and there is so much left for me to "change myself, hence change the world."
May kindness prevail in everyone’s lives. Thank you.
Every year on this day, I do something extra special to honor her memory and the kindness that she exuded. While at a cafe this morning, I was standing behind a couple ordering their breakfast. After they ordered, I asked them if they'd allow me to pay for their breakfast in order to honor a student of mine.The young lady looked at me with some bewilderment and responded, "Sure, I suppose... but that's a lot of money."
I suppose "a lot" is relative. In comparison to one's life, it is nothing.
The couple said thank you, to which I responded, "No, thank you." :)
I can either dwell on the emptiness and sadness created by Jackie's absence, or I can celebrate what she stood for and the happiness that she brought to others.
It has taken several years, but I have decided to do the latter. The day is just beginning, and there is so much left for me to "change myself, hence change the world."
May kindness prevail in everyone’s lives. Thank you.
1432 Reads
- Posted by cyctw
- Nov 16, 2019
- Comments (7)
Readers Comments
Brad2 wrote: Your actions define who you are, thank you for remembering your student, I agree, money isn't everything and not the answer, but you can use it to do good, which you have. Good job, well done.......peace.
pluto178 wrote: Beautiful x
Rajni wrote: Jackie never left you. She disappeared from your eyes forever but she occupied your heart. Such people come in our life for a reason. You did a good job for paying for the couple's breakfast at Panera Bread.
Jyo wrote: Great job
scully wrote: Bless you for honouring the memory of your dear Jackie with acts of love and kindness.
Mish wrote: Positive focus/Positive Life. You turned your sad loss into sharing kindness with others. Bravo, dear “alchemist†😘
SissyLee wrote: What a lovely way to honor your student.
