Dear Tess,
While I've had many teachers throughout my life, none have brought as much meaning to my life as you have. Even though you aren't technically one of my teachers, you still manage to give me a life lesson every now and then, and for that, I'll always be grateful.
You've taught me what it means to be a Christian.
You're the one. The one who brought me back to my faith. The one who was persistent and showed compassion on me, even if I didn't deserve it. The one who made me step back and realize what a woman who loves God looks like. And I wanted to be just like you. Reaching out to me after the whirlwind year I went through, I didn't think much of your invitation. No way could I face God after what he put me through, but you showed and taught me what a loving God he is. He always has a purpose and will never leave one of his children in a time of need.
You've taught me what a woman is.
I'm in such awe of you. The way you carry and present yourself, to the way you live your life authentically, without fear of what others think. I admire that, because not many people are able to do that. I see the way you are with your fiance, and whether you'll ever admit it or not, you're going to be the type of wife I hope I can be one day. You take charge and never settle. You're a thrill searcher and God seeker. The world may only ever have room for one Tess, but it would be better off if more people were like you, and had your heart of gold.
You've taught me what forgiveness is.
You took me in and accepted me when I didn't accept myself. You loved me when I couldn't even look at myself in the mirror. I was ashamed of who I let myself become in those eleven months. I was a mess and a shell of the person I used to be. I was filled with hatred at him and at God. But you never backed down. You listened to me every time I needed someone, even if you heard it twenty times before. You offered advice until I finally listened and took it. You helped me get back on feet. You helped me give him the forgiveness he wasn't asking for, and you helped me receive the forgiveness I desperately needed from God.
You've taught me what it means to be a leader.
I've always attempted to be a woman in a position of power. The type of woman whose makeup is flawless and hair nicely pulled back with heels on. The type of woman who makes everyone's head turn when she walks into a room. Yet, you're able to do that without anything of those things. And that's how I knew I had it all wrong. A leader isn't someone who is superior to others or out shows everyone; a leader is you. You can capture people's attention by just being yourself, and I want to be able to do that one day. You have the hardest job: teaching high school students about Jesus. But you do it with such grace and accuracy. Keep up the good job, and never ever stop because you don't feel like you're making a difference, because I promise you someone is always watching and listening.
It may take all of this life and more to repay you for the love and kindness you've shown me. I don't know where I'd be in life without you redirecting me into the right direction. But I do know that I won't ever meet a person quite like you. Thank you for all you've done and will do.
Love,
A Forever Grateful Senior
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