Named with love

 

 

Think about people who played a part in making you the person you are today—the difference makers. When Bob Stoess did that, he wrote this:

 

As I look back on my lifetime, I see many who mentored my life. I see friends, neighbors, educators, and coaches meant so much to my development.

 

"I praise and admire each of them, but none could compare to my parents and the lessons I learned from them. They taught me with care, compassion, kindness, and love. They showed me their own footprint in this world and challenged me to exceed their achievements.

 

They taught me to be compassionate and caring to all I meet in life. They said I must appreciate my neighbor, to care for myself. I must meet the needs of the helpless, to provide for my own needs. I must share myself, and my worth, to grow and receive true understanding in life. I must be an understanding follower, to be an able leader.

 

One of the hardest lessons I had to learn is that life is not all about me. I need to make the most of the opportunities presented to me so I can make a difference to those I meet on life's pathway.

 

When I stop, I take the time to be still, and listen to my heart and spirit. I become aware of my purpose in being here. It's not about my home, but do I care for the homeless? It's not about a beautiful lawn, but did I play ball with the kids and grandkids? It's not about how I take care of my body, but do I care for those in the nursing homes?

 

Perhaps some of the people you thought of that made you who you are today didn’t have a positive impact on your life. Never mind them. Be strong. Forgive those who have hurt you. Be bold and live for others. Don't wait for things to get better someday. Do something about it today. Use your God-given talents to make the footprint God meant you to make with your life.