I know, I realize it's actually Wednesday; but so what! Besides, I have to put God first so that everything else takes care of itself. That could be my Sunday Message in and of itself, and I could call it a day; but that would be too easy. Besides, something else is on my mind this week.
My daughter and I were looking through some books in our library room and came across my high school senior scrapbook. We sat together and looked through it page for page (I was much lighter!) I have fond memories of that year. I was the captain of my band (trombone), I graduated with honors, and was surrounded by a group of great friends. But interesting enough, most of my scrapbook was filled with things I got "outside" of high school ... my seminary class (ironically, I was also voted as the seminary class president - go figure!)
We met at 6 a.m. each morning at our church before school and was taught by the most amazing seminary teacher ever - Sister Collins. She inspired us to be great every morning, was always prepared, and gave us reminders every week to keep God in our lives. But mostly I remember her smile and the confidence she had in me. Any doubts I had to that point on whether I'd be going on a full-time mission or would always remain active in the church were erased by that year in seminary. Where would I be with her? I probably would be OK; but I think I'm more than OK because of her.
My scrapbook reminded me that I've had (and have) other role models in my life that are just as meaningful as Sister Collins. Where would I be with them? Then I had an even more scary thought ... how many people in this world go through life without a role model? If this world is going to be a better place, it would be because we take action and be an example to our children, their friends, and other young people that we can have a positive effect on that our around us. I believe the right term is "pay it forward".
Thank you, Sister Collins - and all those who helped to make me better than I could be on my own. Thank you.