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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 10/17/2007 5:19:40 AM | The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life.
>
> One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education. He argued,
> "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in
> life was to become a teacher?"
>
> He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about teachers: "Those
> who can, do.. Those who can't, teach."
>
> To stress his point he said to another guest; "You're a teacher, Bonnie.
> Be honest. What do you make?"
>
> Bonnie, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied, "You want
> to know what I make? (She paused for a second, then began...)
>
> "Well, I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.
>
> I make a C+ feel like the Congressional Medal of Honor winner.
>
> I make kids sit through 40 minutes of class time when their parents can't
> make them sit for 5 without an I Pod, Game Cube or movie rental.
>
> You want to know what I make?" (She paused again and looked at each and
> every person at the table.)
>
> I make kids wonder.
>
> I make them question.
>
> I make them apologize and mean it.
>
> I make them have respect and take responsibility for their actions.
>
> I teach them to write and then I make them write. Keyboarding isn't
> everything.
>
> I make them read, read, read.
>
> I make them show all their work in math. They use their God given brain,
> not the man-made calculator.
>
> I make my students from other countries learn everything they need to know
> about English while preserving their unique cultural identity.
>
> I make my classroom a place where all my students feel safe.
>
> I make my students stand, placing their hand over their heart to say the
> Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, One Nation Under God, because we live in
> the United States of America.
>
> Finally, I make them understand that if they use the gifts they were
> given, work hard, and follow their hearts, they can succeed in life."
>
> (Bonnie paused one last time and then continued.)
>
> "Then, when people try to judge me by what I make, with me knowing money
> isn't everything, I can hold my head up high and pay no attention because
> they are ignorant.... You want to know what I make?
>
> I MAKE A DIFFERENCE. What do you make Mr. CEO?"
>
> His jaw dropped, he went silent.
>
>
> THIS IS WORTH SENDING TO EVERY TEACHER YOU KNOW.
> | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 10/25/2007 2:12:53 AM | This is good. I got it from a former co-worker yesterday. Sorry, but I didn't have time to clean it up!
Three Bullets> > >
There once was a man who had nothing for his family to eat. He had an old > rifle and three bullets. So, he decided that he would go out hunting and > kill some wild game for dinner.> > > As he went down the road, he saw a rabbit. He shot at the rabbit and > missed it. The rabbit ran away.> > > > Then he saw a squirrel and fired a shot at the squirrel and missed it. > The squirrel disappeared into a hole in a cottonwood tree.> > > > As he went further, he saw a large wild "Tom" turkey in the tree, but he > had only one bullet remaining. A voice spoke to him and said, "Pray first, > aim high and stay focused." However, at the same time, he saw a deer which > was a better kill. He brought the gun down and aimed at the deer. But, then > he saw a rattlesnake between his legs about to bite him, so he naturally > brought the gun down further to shoot the rattlesnake.> > > > Still, the voice said again to him, "I said 'Pray, Aim high and Stay > focused."> > > > So, the man decided to listen to God's voice. He prayed, then aimed the > gun high up in the tree and shot the wild turkey. The bullet went through > the turkey and bounced off the tree hitting and killing the deer. The handle > fell off the gun and hit the snake in the head and killed it. And, when the > gun had gone off, it knocked the man into a pond. When he stood up to look > around, he had fish in all his pockets, a dead deer and a turkey to feed his > family. The snake (Satan) was dead simply because the man listened to God.> > > > Moral of the story: Pray first before you do anything, Aim and shoot > high in your goals, and stay focused on God. Never let others discourage you > concerning your past. The past is exactly that "the past." Live every day > one day at a time and remember that only God knows our future and that he > will not put you through any more than you can bear. Do not look to man for > your blessings, but look to God only. He has prepared in advance for you in > your favor.> > > > Wait, be still and patient: keep God first and everything else will > follow.> > > > > | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 10/25/2007 8:56:00 AM | Great post !!!!
Thanks for sharing.
~~loreli~~ | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 10/26/2007 8:28:25 PM | **Posted in the Goodnight Thread as well!!**
Good night and goodbye for now per sealover55, she has moved and gotten a new job, she said she actually has less time now to be tied to the puter and wishes everyone all the love you can get!!!
God Bless you Sandy, you shared your love to us all and we'll miss you!!
~Sneaks | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 11/1/2007 4:04:44 AM | A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street,
going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting
out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown.
The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, "What was that all about and who are you? Just
what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?" The young boy was apologetic. "Please, mister...please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do," He pleaded. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..." With tears dripping down his face and off his
chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother, "he said. "He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up."
Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Would you please
help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy
for me."
Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump
in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair,
then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and
cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. "Thank
you and may God bless you," the grateful child told the stranger.
Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy! push his wheelchair-bound
brother down the sidewalk toward their home.
It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable,
but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. He kept the
dent there to remind him of this message: "Don't go through life so
fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!"
God whispers in our souls and speaks to our hearts. Sometimes when we don't
have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us. It's our choice to
listen or not.
If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it.
If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it.
He sends you flowers every spring.
He sends you a sunrise every morning Face it, friend - He is crazy about
you!
If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 11/26/2007 9:45:55 AM | This was sent to me by a close friend and it made me just cry.
Am I A Fireman Yet??
In Phoenix, Arizona , a 26-year-old mother stared down at her 6 year old
son, who was dying of terminal leukemia.
Although her heart was filled with sadness, she also had a strong
feeling of determination.
Like any parent, she wanted her son to grow up & Fulfill all his
dreams.
Now that was no longer possible.
The leukemia would see to that. But she still wanted her son's dream to
come true.
She took her son's hand and asked, "Billy, did you ever think about
what you wanted to be once you grew up?
Did you ever dream and wish what you would do with Your life?"
Mommy, "I always wanted to be a fireman when I grew up."
Mom smiled back and said, "Let's see if we can make your wish come
true."
Later that day she went to her local fire Department in Phoenix ,
Arizona , where she met Fireman Bob, who had a heart as big As Phoenix
She explained her son's final wish and Asked if it might be possible to
give her 6 year
Old son a ride around the block on a fire engine.
Fireman Bob said, "Look, we can do better than That. If you'll have
your son ready at seven o'clock Wednesday morning, we'll make him an
honorary Fireman for the whole day.
He can come down to the fire station, eat with us, Go out on all the
fire calls, the whole nine yards!
And if you'll give us his sizes, we'll get a real fire uniform
For him, with a real fire hat - not a toy -- One-with the emblem of
the Phoenix Fire Department On it, a yellow slicker like we wear and
rubber boots.
They're all manufactured right here in Phoenix, so
We can get them fast."
Three days later Fireman Bob picked up Billy, Dressed him in his
uniform and escorted him from His hospital bed to the waiting Hook and
ladder truck.
Billy got to sit on the back of the truck and help Steer it back to the
fire station.
He was in heaven.
There were three fire calls in Phoenix that day And Billy got to go out
on all three calls He rode in the different fire engines, the
Paramedic's' van, and even the fire chief's car.
He was also videotaped for the local news program.
Having his dream come true,
With all the Love and attention that was lavished Upon him, so deeply
touched Billy, That he lived three months longer than any doctor
Thought possible.
One night all of his vital signs began to drop
Dramatically and the head nurse, who believed
In the hospice concept - that no one
Should die alone, began to call the family Members to the hospital.
Then she remembered the day Billy had spent as a Fireman, so she called
the Fire Chief and asked if it would
Be possible to send a fireman in uniform to the hospital
To be with Billy as he made his transition.
The chief replied, "We can do better than that.
We'll be there in five minutes.
Will you please do me a favor?
When you hear the sirens screaming and see the
Lights flashing, will you announce over the PA system,
That there is not a fire?
It's the department coming to see one of its finest Members one more
time.
And will you open the window to his room?
About five minutes later a hook and ladder truck Arrived at the
hospital and extended its ladder up to Billy's third floor open
window--------
16 fire-fighters climbed up the ladder into Billy's room With his
mother's permission, they hugged him and held him And told him how much
they LOVED him.
With his dying breath,
Billy looked up at the fire chief and said, "Chief, am I really a
fireman now?"
"Billy, you are, and the Head Chief,
Jesus, is holding your hand," the chief said
With those words, Billy smiled and said, "I know, He's been holding my
hand all day, and The angels have been singing.."
He closed his eyes one last time.
My instructions were to send this to at least four People that I wanted
God to bless and I picked you.
Please pass this to at least four people you want To be blessed. This
story is powerful and there is nothing Attached, PLEASE do not break
this pattern; Uplifting stories are one of the best gifts we receive.
There is no cost, but a lot of rewards, let's Continue to uplift one
another
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/4/2007 5:42:53 PM | I got this from janny today.
Reality of Life
Life isn't just full of happiness,
It's sunsets, it's love, it's tears.
It's the thoughts of yesterdays memories,
That can wash away all out fears.
It's that very painful experience,
That each one of us has had.
It's the laughter that fills the air,
It's the tears when you are sad.
It's loving that someone special,
That at one time made you smile.
It's the pain of losing that person,
But the memories that make it worthwhile.
It's that child in every one of us,
Although in time we'll all be old.
It's the good times we'll never forget,
It's the memories we'll always hold.
It's the hug that we all need,
When we'd rather drown in our sorrow.
It's the hope in every one of us,
That makes us hold on for tomorrow.
I am sending a hug to you right now. And I send love with it. | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/6/2007 2:08:42 AM | | JoJo, your story reminds me of an old Red Sovine (is that right?) one that he put on the radio. It is called "Teddy Bear" or something like that and is now in "Chicken Soup for the Country Soul." There is also "Teddy Bear's Last Ride." Those are tear jerking stories that also leave you with such a wonderful feeling when you see what grown men will do for a dying little one. | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/6/2007 2:08:56 AM | | JoJo, your story reminds me of an old Red Sovine (is that right?) one that he put on the radio. It is called "Teddy Bear" or something like that and is now in "Chicken Soup for the Country Soul." There is also "Teddy Bear's Last Ride." Those are tear jerking stories that also leave you with such a wonderful feeling when you see what grown men will do for a dying little one. | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/7/2007 6:03:46 PM | Wanted to share this with you
********************************************************************************
What a difference a sad event in someone's life makes.
GEORGE CARLIN (His wife recently died...)
Isn't it amazing that George Carlin - comedian of the 70's and 80's - could write something so very eloquent...and so very appropriate.
A Message by Georg e Carlin:
The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.
We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much , and pray too seldom.
We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.
We've lea rned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.
We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...
Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.
Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.
Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.
Remember, to say, "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.
Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
If you don't send this to at least 8 people....Who cares?
George Carlin
~sea~ | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/8/2007 6:37:58 AM | I'm pretty sure this has been posted before, but I got it from a good friend this week and wanted to share it for anyone who hasn't heard it before:
Attitude
There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror,
and noticed she had only three hairs on her head. Well," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today!" So she did and she had a wonderful day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. "H-M-M," she said, "I think I'll part my hair down the middle today." So she did and she had a grand day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head. "Well," she said, "today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail." So she did and she had a fun, fun day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head. "YEA!" she exclaimed, "I don't have to fix my hair today!"
Attitude is everything.  | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/11/2007 7:03:09 AM | This is good and says exactly what I feel, check it out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAckfn8yiAQ | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 12/16/2007 11:02:45 AM | Something I found posted on a friend's bullentin at another site:
Thought you might enjoy this interesting prayer given in Kansas at the opening session of their Senate. It seems prayer still upsets some people. When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual generalities, but this is what they heard:
'Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done.
We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.
We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.
We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.
We have killed our unborn and called it choice.
We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.
We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem.
We have abused power and called it politics.
We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.
We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression.
We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.
Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Amen!'
The response was immediate. A number of legislators walked out during the prayer in
protest. In 6 short weeks, Central Christian Church, where Rev. Wright is pastor, logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls responding negatively. The church is now receiving international requests for copies of this prayer from India , Africa and Korea .
Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program, 'The Rest of the Story,'and received a larger response to this program than any other he has ever aired.
With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called 'one nation under God.'
If possible, please pass this prayer on to your friends. 'If you don't stand for something, you will fall for everything.'
Sponsored Links
Online Bible College | |
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| Punctuation is powerful!
Posted: 12/18/2007 3:24:51 PM | An English professor wrote the words:
"A woman without her man is nothing"
on the chalkboard and asked his students to punctuate it correctly.
All of the males in the class wrote: "A woman, without her man, is nothing."
All the females in the class wrote: "A woman: without her, man is nothing."
Punctuation is powerful. | |
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| Punctuation is powerful!
Posted: 12/18/2007 4:08:25 PM | Glad you liked it Billy.
Remember,
We are all one of God's children.
We ALL are something special, each in their own unique way!!!!!
Sending another one........... | |
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| Test for Dementia
Posted: 12/18/2007 4:12:06 PM | ( dementia = several impaired memory and reasoning ability)
This is good - follow the instructions exactly. Do NOT take time to consider an answer. Just answer as quickly as you can
The Test:
>
> Below are four (4) questions and a bonus question. You have to answer them
> instantly. You can't take your time, answer all of them immediately. OK?
>
> Let's find out just how clever you really are....
>
> First Question:
> You are participating in a race. You overtake the second person.
> What position are you in?
>
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>
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>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Answer: If you answered that you are first, then you are absolutely
> wrong! If you overtake the second person and you take his place,
> you are second!
>
>
>
> Try not to screw up next time. Now answer the second question,
> But don't take as much time as you took for the first question, OK ?
>
> Second Question:
> If you overtake the last person, then you are...?
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> Answer: If you answered tha t you are second to last, then you are
> wrong again. Tell me, how can you overtake the LAST Person?
>
>
>
> You're not very good at this, are you?
>
>
>
>
> Third Question:
> Very tricky arithmetic! Note: This must be done in your head only .
> Do NOT use paper and pencil or a calculator. Try it.
>
> Take 1000 and add 40 to it. Now add another 1000 . Now add 30 .
> Add another 1000 . Now add 20 . Now add another 1000
> Now add 10 . What is the total?
>
>
>
>
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>
>
>
>
>
> Did you get 5000 ?
>
> The correct answer is actually 4100.
> If you don't believe it, now check it with a calculator!
> Today is definitely not your day, is it?
>
> Maybe you'll get the last question right....
> ......Maybe.
>
>
>
>
>
> Fourth Question:
>
> Mary's father has five daughters: 1. Nana, 2. Nene, 3. Nini,
> 4. Nono. What is the name of the fifth daughter?
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> Di d you Answer Nunu?
> NO! Of course it isn't.
> Her name is Mary. Read the question again!
>
>
>
> Okay, now the bonus round:
>
>
>
>
>
> A mute person goes into a shop and wants to buy a toothbrush. By
> imitating the action of brushing his teeth he successfully
> expresses himself to the shopkeeper and the purchase is done.
> Next, a blind man comes into the shop who wants to buy a pair of
> sunglasses; how does HE indicate what he wants?
>
>
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> He just has to open his mouth and ask...
> It's really very simple... Like you! | |
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| In Mama's Honor
Posted: 12/19/2007 9:14:57 AM | Mama would have been 75 today.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA !!!!
Mama, you are missed.
Mama, you are loved today even more than I have ever loved you.
Mama, when I think of you my eyes water but my heart warms.
Mama, I thank God every day for choosing you to be my mama.
Mama, I used to dwell on the loss here on earth.
Mama, because of you, I now dwell on the unimaginable paradise where you are.
Mama, because of you, your love, and your being the best mother a girl could ask for, I know I will see you again.
Mama, I will see you again in heaven.
Mama, I love you.
Mama, today is the day to celebrate your birth.
Mama, today is the day, more than any day, I remember your life and your love.
Mama, today I will smile all day long and I owe this genuine smile to you.
Happy Birthday Mama!
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| In Mama's Honor
Posted: 12/19/2007 3:31:23 PM | This came from an email I got today. Loreli, I think your mama would have liked this one! You all may have seen it before, but it's very much worth repeating!
The "W" in Christmas
Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience.
I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending..
Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas.
My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six year old.
For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's Winter Pageant.
I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production, unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his Teacher, she assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation.
All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.
So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats.
As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song.
Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer.
So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by its bold title.
Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads.
Those in the front row - center stage - held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song.
As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message,
"Christmas Love."
The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W".
The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W".
Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together.
A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities.
For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:
"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"
And, I believe, He still is. Amazed in His presence .... humbled by His love. | |
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| another sweet one!
Posted: 12/19/2007 5:55:13 PM | Got this in another email today. Oh, to have love like this, without the lost time, of course!
The Lost Wallet:
As I walked home one freezing day, I stumbled on a wallet someone had lost in the street. I picked it up and looked inside to find some identification so I could call the owner. But the wallet contained only three dollars and a crumpled letter that looked as if it had been in there for years.
The envelope was worn and the only thing that was legible on it was the return address. I started to open the letter, hoping to find some clue. Then I saw the dateline; 1924. The letter had been written almost sixty years ago.
It was written in a beautiful feminine handwriting on powder blue stationery with a little flower in the left-hand corner. It was a "Dear John" letter that told the recipient, whose name appeared to be Michael, that the writer could not see him any more because her mother forbade it. Even so, she wrote that she would always love him. It was signed, Hannah.
It was a beautiful letter, but there was no way except for the name Michael, that the owner could be identified. Maybe if I called information, the operator could find a phone listing for the address on the envelope.
"Operator," I began, "this is an unusual request. I'm trying to find the owner of a wallet that I found. Is there anyway you can tell me if there is a phone number for an address that was on an envelope in the wallet?"
She suggested I speak with her supervisor, who hesitated for a moment then said, "Well, there is a phone listing at that address, but I can't give you the number." She said, as a courtesy, she would call that number, explain my story and would ask them if they wanted her to connect me. I waited a few minutes and then she was back on the line. "I have a party who will speak with you."
I asked the woman on the other end of the line if she knew anyone by the name of Hannah. She gasped, "Oh! We bought this house from a family who had a daughter named Hannah. But that was 30 years ago!"
"Would you know where that family could be located now?" I asked.
"I remember that Hannah had to place her mother in a nursing home some years ago," the woman said. "Maybe if you got in touch with them they might be able to track down the daughter."
She gave me the name of the nursing home and I called the number. They told me the old lady had passed away some years ago but they did have a phone number for where they thought the daughter might be living. I thanked them and phoned. The woman who answered explained that Hannah herself was now living in a nursing home.
This whole thing was stupid, I th ought to myself. Why was I making such a big deal over finding the owner of a wallet that had only three dollars and a letter that was almost 60 years old? Nevertheless, I called the nursing home in which Hannah was supposed to be living and the man who answered the phone told me, "Yes, Hannah is staying with us."
Even though it was already 10 p.m., I asked if I could come by to see her. "Well," he said hesitatingly, "if you want to take a chance, she might be in the day room watching television." I thanked him and drove over to the nursing home. The night nurse and a guard greeted me at the door. We went up to the third floor of the large building. In the day room, the nurse introduced me to Hannah. She was a sweet, silver-haired old timer with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye.
I told her about finding the wallet and showed her the letter. The second she saw the powder blue envelope with that little flower on the left, she took a deep breath and said, "Young man, this letter was the last contact I ever had with Michael."
She looked away for a moment deep in thought and then, said softly, "I loved him very much. But I was only 16 at the time and my mother felt I was too young. Oh, he was so handsome. He looked like Sean Connery, the actor."
Yes," she continued. "Michael Goldstein was a wonderful person. If you should find him, tell him I think of him often. And," she hesitated for a moment, almost biting her lip, "tell him I still love him. You know," she said smiling as tears began to well up in her eyes, "I never did marry. I guess no one ever matched up to Michael..."
I thanked Hannah and said good-bye. I took the elevator to the first floor and as I stood by the door, the guard there asked, "Was the old lady able to help you?"
I told him she had given me a lead. "At least I have a last name. But I think I'll let it go for a while. I spent almost the whole day trying to find the owner of this wallet."
I had taken out the wallet, which was a simple brown leather case with red lacing on the side. When the guard saw it, he said, "Hey, wait a minute! That's Mr. Goldstein's wallet. I'd know it anywhere with that right red lacing. He's always losing that wallet. I must have found it in the halls at least three times."
"Who's Mr. Goldstein?" I asked as my hand began to shake.
"He's one of the old timers on the 8th floor. That's Mike Goldstein's wallet for sure. He must have lost it on one of his walks."
I thanked the guard and quickly ran back to the nurse's office. I told her what the guard had said. We went back to the elevator and got on. I prayed that Mr. Goldstein would be up.
On the eighth floor, the floor nurse said, "I think he's still in the day room. He likes to read at night. He's a darling old man.." We went to the only room that had any lights on and there was a man reading a book. The nurse went over to him and asked if he had lost his wallet. Mr. Goldstein looked up with surprise, put his hand in his back pocket and said, "Oh, it is missing!"
"This kind gentleman found a wallet and we wondered if it could be yours?" I handed Mr. Goldstein the wallet and the second he saw it, he smiled with relief and said, "Yes, that's it! It must have dropped out of my pocket this afternoon. I want to give you a reward."
"No, thank you," I said. "But I have to tell you something. I read the letter in the hope of finding out who owned the wallet." The smile on his face suddenly disappeared. "You read that letter?"
"Not only did I read it, I think I know where Hannah is."
He suddenly grew pale. "Hannah? You know where she is? How is she? Is she still as pretty as she was? Please, please tell me," he begged.
"She's fine...just as pretty as when you knew her." I said softly.
The old man smiled with anticipation and asked, "Could you tell me where she is? I want to call her tomorrow." He grabbed my hand and said, "You know something, mister, I was so in love with that girl that when that letter came, my life literally ended. I never married. I guess I've always loved her. "
"Mr. Goldstein," I said, "come with me."
We took the elevator down to the third floor. The hallways were darkened and only one or two little night-lights lit our way to the day room where Hannah was sitting alone watching the television.
The nurse walked over to her. "Hannah," she said softly, pointing to Michael, who was waiting with me in the doorway. "Do you know this man?" Hannah adjusted her glasses, looked for a moment, but didn't say a word. Michael said softly, almost in a whisper, "Hannah, it's Michael. Do you remember me?"
She gasped, "Michael! I don't believe it! Michael! It's you! My Michael!" He walked slowly towards her and they embraced. The nurse and I left with tears streaming down our faces.
"See," I said. "See how the Good Lord works! If it's meant to be, it will be."
About three weeks later I got a call at my office from the nursing home. "Can you break away on Sunday to attend a wedding? Michael and Hannah are going to tie the knot!"
It was a beautiful wedding with all the people at the nursing home dressed up to join in the celebration. Hannah wore a light beige dress and looked beautiful. Michael wore a dark blue suit and stood tall. They made me their best man.
The hospital gave them their own room and if you ever wanted to see a 76-year-old bride and a 79-year-old groom acting like two teenagers, you had to see this couple.
A perfect ending for a love affair that had lasted nearly 60 years.
Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only love will leave footprints in your heart. May God hold you in the palm of his hand and Angels watch over you.
"Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much" | |
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| Joys, Pains, Thoughts...Just Reminiscing.............
Posted: 12/22/2007 9:08:54 PM | Su, I loved both posts. Thank you for thinking of mama and yes, she would have loved it and if she was in that audience, she would have used the experience for a testimony of God's never ending love and how He worked yet again, in what may be a mysterious way to some.
I enjoy reminiscing when think back on yesterdays. The closer I get to 50, the more I wish I could go back and do it better a second time. Still, there I are many things I would not change...not at all. I look forward to 2008. A new year. Another opportunity...............but I am thankful for the beautiful memories of mama, and many other things. While reminiscing a song played. I have heard it many times and love the words and so I want to share them. Not sure if they are the exact words because I am relying on my memory but I like the word and songs.
REMEMBER WHEN
Remember when
I was young…so were you
Time stood still
Love was all we knew
Your were the first, so was I
We made love and then you cried
Remember when
Remember when
We vowed our vows
And we walk along
We gave our hearts
We made a start
And it was hard
We lived and learned
Life threw curves
There was joy
And there was hurt
Remember when
Remember when
Old ones died
And new were born
And life was changed
Disassembled… rearranged
We came together
We fell apart
And broke each other’s hearts
Remember when
Remember when
The sound of little feet
Wasn’t music
We danced until we ‘til we
Brought back the love
We found trust
Vowed we never give it up
Remember when
Remember when
Thirty seemed so old
Now looking back
Was just a stepping stone
To where we are
Where we’ve been
Said we’d do it all again
Remember when
Remember when
We said when we turned gray
When the children
Grow up and move away
We won’t be sad
We’ll be glad
For all the life we’ve had……………………
And, We’ll Remember When
Remember when
Remember……..when…..
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| The sharing corner
Posted: 1/21/2008 12:12:55 PM | I had to share this the minute I heard about it. I absolutely love it. Its the Seventeen's Body Peace Treaty
I Vow to.....
Remember that the sun will still rise tomorrow even if I had one too many slices of pizza or an extra scoop of ice cream tonight.
Never blame my body for the bad day I'm having.
Stop joining in when my friends compare and trash their own bodies.
Never allow a dirty look from someone else to influence how I feel about my appearance.
Quit judging a person solely by how his or her body looks — even if it seems harmless — because I'd never want anyone to do that to me.
Notice all the amazing things my body is doing for me every moment I walk, talk, think, breathe...
Quiet that negative little voice in my head when it starts to say mean things about my body that I'd never tolerate anyone else saying about me.
Remind myself that what you see isn't always what you get on TV and in ads — it takes a lot of airbrushing, dieting, money, and work to look like that.
Remember that even the girl who I'd swap bodies with in a minute has something about her looks that she hates.
Respect my body by feeding it well, working up a sweat when it needs it, and knowing when to give it a break.
Realize that the mirror can reflect only what's on the surface of me, not who I am inside.
Know that I'm already beautiful just the way I am. | |
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| The Sharing Corner
Posted: 1/21/2008 9:01:33 PM | Thanks Janny..........~sea~
'I Hope You Dance... '
This was written by an 83-year-old woman to her friend.
*The last line says it all. *
Dear Bertha,
I'm reading more and dusting less. I'm sitting in the yard and admiring the view without fussing about the weeds in the garden. I'm spending more time with my family and friends and less time working.
Whenever possible, life should be a pattern of experiences to savor, not to endure. I'm trying to recognize these moments now and cherish them.
I'm not "saving" anything; we use our good china and crystal for every special event such as losing a pound, getting the sink unstopped, or the first Amaryllis blossom.
I wear my good blazer to the market. My theory is if I look prosperous, I can shell out $28.49 for one small bag of groceries. I'm not saving my good perfume for special parties, but wearing it for clerks in the hardware store and tellers at the bank.
"Someday" and "one of these days" are losing their grip on my vocabulary. If it's worth seeing or hearing or doing, I want to see and hear and do it now
I'm not sure what others would've done had they known they wouldn't be here for the tomorrow that we all take for granted. I think they would have called family members and a few close friends. They might have called a few former friends to apologize and mend fences for past squabbles. I like to think they would have gone out for a Chinese dinner or for whatever their favorite food was.
I'm guessing; I'll never know.
It's those little things left undone that would make me angry if I knew my hours were limited. Angry because I hadn't written certain letters that I intended to write one of these days. Angry and sorry that I didn't tell my husband and parents often enough how much I truly love them. I'm trying very hard not to put off, hold back, or save anything that would add laughter and luster to our lives. And every morning when I open my eyes, tell myself that it is special.
Every day, every minute, every breath truly is a gift from God.
If you received this, it is because someone cares for you. If you're too busy to take the few minutes that it takes right now to forward this, would it be the first time you didn't do the little thing that would make a difference in your relationships? I can tell you it certainly won't be the last.
Take a few minutes to send this to a few people you care about, just to let them know that you're thinking of them.
"People say true friends must always hold hands, but true friends don't need to hold hands because they know the other hand will always be there."
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance | |
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