Inspirational meeting

I recently visited my friend, Eric Idehen, to catch up with him about what has happened since our last meeting.  I envisioned our meeting much differently than it turned out.  In fact, I left his office so inspired and convicted that it has taken me almost two weeks to write this post.

In our conversation, Eric shared with me how he escaped the suffocating grip of poverty from Nigeria.  He was the blessed recipient of a lottery that happens in Nigeria.  One out of 50 million people are chosen to receive a Visa to anywhere in the world.  His testimony is one that I dare not try to replicate in a simple post, but what this man has done with his life due to the hand of God on his life is something to absolutely share. 

Please take a moment and reflect on what one person has done with a winning lottery ticket:

Love Knows NO Bounds!

As teachers, we think about the enduring impact our investment of time, love and energy we give to our students.  Will we actually make an impactful difference in their lives?

Even though the species of this video is different, it shows how a life is forever changed by people pouring their love into a life.  I've seen this several times and it still makes me weep.  Need to know how your love of passion for your work matters, take a look:

Learning Visually

As a visual learner myself, I came across a slideshare from David Armano that can be used by marketers and educators alike.  Great illustrations of how adults learn and how we, as teachers, can bring deeper understanding of content to our students.  Take a Look!

Thinking Visually

View more presentations from David Armano.

What do you SEE?

On my morning commute today, I became painfully aware of something - Many of us do not SEE.  Cars are darting in and out of traffic, people are briskly walking with their heads down, and eye contact is reduced to a minimal obligation.  I realize this may be a habit, but I fear it stems from a deeper condition.

Let me just ask - How large is your awareness of the world within your daily routine?

This is the only day we are given.  We cannot afford to live in our small little world where we go to work, run our errands, then hide away in our homes only to get up and do it all again tomorrow.  There is need, wonder, courageous acts, quiet suffering, joy, pain, love, etc.  We need to expand our humanity in such a way that we SEE every aspect of what the day is giving us.  

My challenge to you is to open not only your eyes, but your heart and mind to all that today offers.  Become fully aware and engaged in this journey called life.  Today is our only chance at making a difference.  What if today was your last day?

 

photo on flickr by Rainer Ebert