In order to be a really good teacher, I believe you must continuously be a student. I see quotes, parables, and metaphors, all having one mission in common, and that is to help visually guide.

I once read that the famous quote, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn,” derived out of a Chinese philosophy book. The original paragraph read, “Not having heard something is not as good as having heard it; having heard it is not as good as having seen it; having seen it is not as good as knowing it; knowing it is not as good as putting it into practice.” I am not sure I agree 100% with the original paragraph, as much as I do the quote that came from it. After all, some things are better off when not seen, nor heard, or practiced. However, it is all good when it serves us well.

Every year, I do my best to put together a fundraiser, theatrical play and video, with my class. It’s in hopes that they can learn more about God’s love for them through involving them in tasting it, feeling it, and seeing it. Through these events I realize that we were not created to walk by ourselves, but with each-other. It is said that fruit rarely grows in isolation, but only together with others, being connected by the vine that gives it life and fruitfulness.

This year before our Easter production, I reached out to my students that are not fans of being on stage. I delegated the responsibilities of opening the curtain, playing the music, and filming. I have to say, they did an awesome job, I couldn’t have done it without them! From my performers to my crew, they are all truly disciples in the making. After all, we may be the only bible that the people we meet will ever read, or the last message given, through word and deed.

In the presence of God, we are sure to be protected, directed, and even corrected. My Mother-in-law once said it best, as she was helping me fold some clothes. I was just about to go up the steps when she handed me a stack, saying, “Don’t go up empty handed!”

Matthew 6:19-21 Treasures in Heaven “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. May His Risen, giving, loving presence fill us with every joy, motivating us to do our part to bring His Good News to others.

Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve, to protect us, and to defend this great nation. In celebrating this Memorial Day, may you and your family be blessed in abundance!

Deanna Danielle

 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit…”                                                      John 15:5

One hand reaching out to hold another…