The Circle

I have a big box that looks like a book.  The cover is a water color of flowers and it ties with a black satin bow.  I call it my love box.  It holds every note, letter , card, drawing  and dog tag that my students from work have given me for almost twelve years.

A student had his last class with me today.  After class he spoke with me for several minutes and before he left he gave me a hug, a letter and a book.  I came home and read his letter.  I smiled and shed tears.  These notes and letters mean the world to me.  Whenever I am sick or down I reach for my love box.  Its contents remind me that what I am doing is worth while.  What I am doing matters to some, not everyone but some.

I know that some of them have passed, others have struggled, some I have not heard from since they left the program.  I know some are thriving, living the lives they were born to live.
I know you can't help everyone, but if you help one person it has the ripple effect.
Your life touches them and they in turn touch many many more.  That is the circle.  That is the paying it forward.

My heart is full of gratitude tonight for the kindness that touches my life daily.  I am such a lucky woman.  Those students give me so much more than I could ever give them.  May you all know such kindness in your lives.

Goodnight, Sweet dreams