Today's guest contributor is one of my English Composition I students, Ryan Clack. He's graciously given me permission to share his first essay of the fall semester with all of you. I was inspired and touched by his essay; I'm sure you will be, too. What Makes Ryan Clack, Ryan Clack? Answering the question above... Continue Reading →
Today's post is written by one of my current college students, Kaleb Mendoza. I love his expression of gratitude in this essay. In everything you do and everything you accomplish, you should give grace for the opportunities you get in life. I am a very religious man, raised from two great parents who taught me... Continue Reading →
Today's post is by one of my male students who prefers to remain anonymous. Dear Nana, I know I am not the best at showing appreciation to you, but during this time of year thankfulness is a common subject that comes up. I want you to know that I am very thankful for you. You... Continue Reading →
This letter was written by Gabrielle Holmes, one of my students, as a tribute to her mother. Dear Momma, I want to let you know how thankful I am to still have you in my life considering all the obstacles we have faced in life. Since Pawpaw died, you have stepped up and really showed me... Continue Reading →
When company’s coming, I normally tidy up the house hurriedly, clearing up clutter quickly. Everything must find its home--James’ smelly socks sitting in the middle of the mudroom floor, Maggie’s tiny pile of clean laundry atop the dining table outside her room, the four coffee cups on the kitchen counter. Even if I don’t have... Continue Reading →
Today's post is written by one of my students, Jesse Shoemaker. Jesse wrote this essay in response to the prompt: Write about your mother or someone who has acted as a mother figure in your life. Describe this person and share at least three lessons you’ve learned from her. My mother is a great influence in my life.... Continue Reading →
*Thank you, Lorie Mink, for sharing your reflections and gratitude in this post.* While searching my closet for a pair of slippers, I came across my mother’s Bible. It’s been sitting on the shelf since we moved in the house three years ago. And I can’t remember the last time I opened it. Mama’s been... Continue Reading →
Big thanks to one of my students, who is a vivacious and wonderful person, Jessica Nicol, for sharing her story in today's post. You know the point in your life where you just don't feel like being angry anymore? I'm there. I've found that in life there is always that one person who you never... Continue Reading →
*Thanks to my friend Brandon Davidson for serving as the guest writer for Day 21 of the Dear Gratitude project. His post is guaranteed to make you laugh. It will probably cause you to pause and give thanks for all the people and circumstances that brought you where you are in your own life, too.*... Continue Reading →
*Day 18 of the Dear Gratitude project is really special; my former boss and friend, Jenny Cannon, shares her reflections on her decision to forgo having an amniocentesis procedure prior to delivering her daughter, Claire, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth.* It has been six months. Six months since I anxiously timed contractions... Continue Reading →
Gratitude Cup 