The older I get, the more retrospective I am. I often catch myself remembering those throughout my life who have impacted my growth and development substantially. I think of how much less I'd be had they not touched my life positively. These can include teachers, parents, relatives, generally older folks who, at some time, shaped me. Unfortunately, most never know how much good they've done and, aside from the movie "It's A Wonderful Life", most do not get the satisfaction of hearing that heartfelt "Thank You" and a brief description of how deeply they've touched my life.
So I've begun to dedicate myself to each week locating one of these people from my past and sending them a letter of thanks - no strings attached. As a former teacher, I realize the rewards of teaching are not measured in dollars but in lives touched. I've had the good fortune of hearing the above many times. Unfortunately, most people never or rarely have heard of the good they've done in shaping others' lives. As I continue to reminisce, I know they'll never be enough weeks to get all my letters sent.
As an added benefit, I'll keep copies of my letters to pass on to my daughter so she can see how deeply and positively others have shaped my life.
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