Simply Blown Away

I have great confidence in the future if my fourth grade class is any indication of the time yet to come. They have everything that it takes to be good leaders. They are: responsible, smart, caring, dedicated, passionate, and above all else, Priceless!

Since the day involved more than I had time for, I arrived at our auditorium with only a few   minutes to spare, before our class began. To my amazement, Cecilia and Joseph were sitting on the stage steps, ready to discuss the upcoming ECAP fundraiser. They looked at me and smiled, letting me know they were set. Joseph then commented that he had read and changed a few of the words in the announcement that Cecilia had written.

Joseph not only helped her with the words of her beautifully written proclamation about our fundraiser, he stood by her side, and together they introduced themselves to the crowd of all the classes. They explained that the reason for this event was to help those in need. Also, how Mr. Brown will go to the food bank to buy food for the people who are in need this Thanksgiving, with the money we raise. As they asked for the help of everyone in the auditorium, they stated that, “Together, we can make a change in the way some people live.”

As I watched them turn the pages in their notebook, listening to them speak, sharing all this information. I can honestly say, they did not miss a beat, and you could have heard a pin drop in that room. They made sure everyone knew the date of our bake sale, the prices of the goods, and where it will be held. They even concluded with these words, “So, remember this Thanksgiving to be grateful for all the things that we have. Thank you!”

Upon arriving at our classroom after the meeting, all I could say was, “I am simply blown away, and I am speechless. I am so impressed with watching all you work so hard, willingly and zealously, not only help others, but to be a great example to others at the importance of loving, caring, and supporting each other. Keep up the great work!”

We learn in Jeremiah 29:11 how God thinks about us, for it is written, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Blessings always,

Deanna Danielle

"Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people.  They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.  The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children." Matthew 14:19-21

“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people.  They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.  The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.”
Matthew 14:19-21

 

There is no love greater than the Creator

Does love get any greater then its Creator? In the spring of 1980, I met with the school counselor to prepare for High School. He asked me about my future plans and the classes that I would like to take. I told him I wanted to prepare myself for becoming a teacher. He said he did not recommend that route for me. I asked him what he thought I should do, and his response was, “Do what your mom does.”

So, I went home and watched her cut and style hair. I had no idea what she was doing. However, God blessed me with the thoughts of “Apples don’t fall too far from the tree.” As I shared my thoughts with my mom, she prepped me with some great advice. She said; “First, I want you to get a job this summer, working in a salon, to make sure it’s what you really want to do.” That’s just what I did. Thanks mom, for always giving me great advice. You are truly the best!

Every time I share this story, most people respond with; “ How dare your counselor tell you that.” The truth is, I feel like he was an angel in disguise. His guidance opened the door to a great adventure, from traveling to seminars as far as Spain and Africa, along with many destinations in between. Also, to having my work published in international magazines and runways. My favorite was “We girls can do anything,” a fashion show that brought in a new line of clothing for young girls.

I’ve been blessed in this industry. It has given me the opportunity to meet many wonderful people while bringing up a family. Along with some time to write books, produce videos, volunteer, and teach religious education to some awesome kids.

In Luke 12: 6-7 we read “Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.” So, I conclude with, there is no love greater than the Creator. May we enjoy each day, for every day is a gift. That is why it’s called the present.

Many Blessings,

Deanna Danielle