I did not have positive support until I reached the age of around 14. There are 3 specific people who influenced me and instilled love and belief in me that I still use today.
The first person would be my high school band director, Barry. I had never played an instrument before in my life, but he was willing to help us all learn. He showed me he believed in me and didn't make me feel like a failure. He only showed me how positive he was and how he believed I could do anything I wanted. That relationship continues today; I actually visit him and keep in touch with him. He one of my biggest supporters!
The next person is actually my band director's wife, Pam. She actually became like a mother I didn't have. I didn't have her in class, but I did go her home many, many days and nights. She helped my by always encouraging me and helping me believe I could do anything I wanted. She showed me unconditional love, and that helped me grow and become positive. She never told me I couldn't do anything; rather, she pushed me to achieve my goals with love and positive words at all times! She has been a positive fixture in my life since I was around 14. She and I still stay in touch. I believe, without her and her husband, I would not be the positive person I am today, nor would I have the desire and strong will I have to continue my education. I can remember a time when I was really struggling with some Math concepts, but Pam would not let me give up. She started tutoring me every night, despite her busy schedule, and wouldn't let me give up. She would sit with me for hours until I was able to do the work. Not giving up on me and actually taking time to work with me left a great impact. It showed me that some people actually did love me and wanted me to succeed in life.
The next, and final person who made a positive impact on me would be my Pastor, Bro. Gil. He has been invovled in my life since I was 14, and I believe God gave him to me to keep me going and to continue thriving. He encouraged me by always reminding me, "God will never put more on you than He thinks you can't handle." Even though I believed I couldn't handle things, I knew he was right. He would always have positive words, no matter the situation. He showed me love by never being afraid to give me those hugs while reminding me certain situations do not last forever. Even as an adult, he is still my pastor, but moreover, he is more like my dad. He is a strong supporter in all I do, even as an adult, and continues to remind me that God will never put more on me than He thinks I can handle.
Even as an adult, the three people I mentioned above influence me. When situations arise, I will think back to those three people, and they always help me want to make the right choice. I will not give up on things, and it is because they were there with me when times were the hardest and they never gave up on me!
Hi Susan
ReplyDeleteIt is wonderful when you get the opportunity to experience positive people. They tend to leave an everlasting impression in our lives. You have such a sweet spirit about yourself. Therefore, I believe that you are such a blessing in the lives of the students that you encounter. Continue the good work.
Erica Hines