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When I think about my elementary school days, my mind goes directly to the 3rd grade! That day at school left a lasting impression on me.
The school day started pretty much the same as any day. I calmly walked into the schoolhouse and sat down in my seat (I did most things calmly). My seat just so happened to be located in rural Arkansas in a one-room schoolhouse that went up to 5th grade. The small building was surrounded by lots of trees that would shed their leaves in the fall (which would give us kids piles and piles of leaves to jump into during recess).
When recess came on this particular day, Tag was the game of choice. It was my turn and I was supposed to “tag” Susie. Well…..I tagged Susie alright…..right over her left eye with a broom! I hadn’t meant to get so excited that I would pick up the nearest item to help me reach Susie, it just happened. Susie, of course, burst into tears, and within minutes had a large (and I mean LARGE) black and blue lump over her eye that was as big as a basketball (maybe not, but that’s the way it appeared to me at the time). I felt so bad about hurting Susie, that the louder she cried, the more I cried. She quit crying long before I could control my own emotions. The educational value for the rest of that school day was totally and completely lost for me!
But, all was not lost, because I did come away with a knowledge that I NEVER wanted to be responsible for hurting another person.
It has been several years since that day in 3rd grade. I wish I could say I have never again hurt anyone, but it would not be true. I haven’t whacked anyone with a broom lately, but must admit I have been responsible for causing hurt by my words and deeds.
Experience has taught me to rely on God to get through this life, not only without causing minimal damage (not enough for me to just not throw brooms), but to be a vessel through which good words and deeds flow.
Footnote:
Susie and I never did become best friends.
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