one kind word can warm three winter months

Teachers have long held a special place in my heart. All of the most influential individuals in my life have been teachers. The people I look up to the most are teachers. And once upon a time I actually thought I had the capacity to become a teacher. But I don't and so I have an even greater respect for those that are and love it.

I know being a "good" person doesn't guarantee salvation, but I'd like to think that the kindness I witnessed today was a reflection of God's love. Crowds of people had been passing by as some guys from church and I offered hot chocolate with hands that could barely feel anymore. Some would accept it gratefully or with an air of suspicion. Most would reject the offer-- some by taking the long way around and others by pretending not to see or hear us. It wasn't the kind of experience that you would consider encouraging, but to me it was. We were only offering temporary warmth for the body, but God blessed me with lasting warmth for my soul.

There was one woman that graciously accepted the drink and started talking to me. She told me that some people just aren't appreciative, but reminded me that it's still worth the effort. It reminded me of a quote from Mother Teresa (not the entire quote below):

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have and it may just never be enough;
Give the world the best you have anyway.

Just before she climbed into her cab, we talked about what we do for a living. I told her that I'm still a student and she told me that she is a Spanish teacher. I wouldn't have guessed that, but I should have been able to. I imagine her pouring time, effort, and most of all love into her students-- many of whom will never appreciate it. I imagine her caring for her students, even the ones that just want school to be over-- especially the ones that don't care. Yet in spite of all this, I image her joyfully continuing the work that she was made for. And that gives me hope. It inspires me. It assures me that even if I never personally see the fruit, the labor is still worthwhile.