Spiritual – Page 9 – A Writer's Daughter

A Teacher and a Cop Say Thanks

On an early morning this fall, I had to return some almost overdue library books. I was avoiding the fines by returning my checkouts before the library opened. The parking lot was empty and I am always a little wary of isolated areas. I was relieved to see ahead of me an officer of the law also making his book returns. Though he was plain-clothed, I knew by the guns and handcuffs on his belt that he was in some kind of law enforcement.

As I approached the book deposit slot, the guy noticed my large stack of books and he turned back to hold the box door open for me. I thanked him and as we both walked away, finished with our library errands, I offered a simple, “Thank you for what you do.” This has, after all, been a tough year for policemen.

He smiled and in a thick Long Island accent returned with, “Thank you for what YOU do.” I was happy to tell him that I teach at the local elementary school. He told me that his three children had attended there. By then, we were both nearing our cars and we parted ways. As I drove on to work, I felt cheered by both acknowledging his contribution to the community, and by the validation that my work also contributed positively to the neighborhood.

We choose our words. Words of thankfulness and gratitude hearten both the speaker and the recipient. In his book The Law of Happiness,* Dr. Henry Cloud describes 12 behaviors proven to benefit mental health; giving thanks is one of them. So cheer yourself and someone else: say “thank you.” In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

*In addition to The Law of Happiness, I recommend Radical Gratitude by my childhood friend, Ellen Vaughn.

September 2001

They say “timing is everything”.

Fifteen years ago, a director at my church asked me to mentor a group of younger mothers. I had never led or taught adults before. I had misgivings and some scheduling conflicts, but I prayerfully agreed to become a group leader.

My group first met in September 2001. Our nation, and particularly the DC area, was reeling from the airplane terrorist attacks. In that group of 5 or 6 ladies, one was the wife of a pilot, one was a military wife, one was a flight attendant and my hostess’s husband was in the State Department, specializing in the Middle East! What a group at what a time!

God is faithful. He bonded us together. Initially, I looked at those cute gals in the prime of their adult lives and felt dowdy and middle-aged. After a time, I became thankful for what I learned from them and for their friendship. The director’s confidence and wisdom kept the mentor groups going strong. She selected great curriculum and fostered wonderful community among the leaders.

My own mothers group flourished for quite a few years. Since then I have received graduation and wedding announcements from some of those families. Several of them continue to attend my church. A couples group formed that still meets. I am aware of no divorces from among them!

When Queen Esther risked her life in the court of the Persian Empire in order to save her Jewish people, her uncle made a famous statement. He said, “Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14) What opportunity has God put in YOUR PATH for THIS TIME?

Divergent

Divergent. Not the young adult book series and movie but the story of two men. In a weekend, one of them had a party and the other one was featured on a TV crime show. There were similarities. Both men marched to the beat of a different drum, were unconventional, even awkward. But the outcomes of their lives couldn’t have been more divergent.

The one man chose a path of helping others, meeting needs, counseling, listening, visiting, praying, often ministering where there was illness or death. And when hundreds from his congregation gathered to celebrate his work and retirement, men and women shared through tears stories of this man’s friendship and caring. His unique and naïve ways were transformed to bless others.

The other man was called a “gentle giant” and a “loner”. He worked too but working inside of him was a dark, bitter and violent response to his world. Over his young adult years, he brutally attacked two victims who survived and he took the lives of at least two young college women. His crimes were eventually found out and he is spending his life in prison.

Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10) The pastor enjoyed a full life because he surrendered his limitations (and we all have them) to God. The other man’s life was stolen by evil as he succumbed to the worst of his nature. We all have to make the choice: the full life through Jesus or destruction.