A VERY SPECIAL GIFT

I found time a couple of years ago, on Christmas Eve to be exact, to catch up on the news published in the weekly paper from my hometown, Des Arc, Ark., population 1,978 and (not) growing. As I quickly scanned The White River Journal before going to the Christmas Eve Service at The Church of the Good Shepherd, I noticed a small item in the subscription section. There was a short note from my high school Sunday School teacher, Talmadge Timms. Mr. Timms informed the publisher that he could not renew his subscription since he now had trouble reading and needed to care for his wife whose health was failing. He left his very best wishes to everyone.

You can’t imagination my joy when I saw that he left his address. I had often wanted to tell him how much I appreciated and valued his guidance and counsel. And here was my chance. What a Christmas gift!

For many years, former members of his Sunday School class, during infrequent reunions or gatherings, would reminisce about those days and how we wished we could turn back the clock. Not surprisingly, Mr. Timms was always fondly recalled for his efforts to guide and teach a bunch of rambunctious boys. Now fast forward almost 30 years later, and here was the opportunity of a lifetime – to tell someone how much he meant to me and to others and how his example of leading a Christian life and passing on his faith to others touched those around him. It was the best present I could ever hope to receive and one of the most meaningful presents I could ever give – the opportunity to tell someone what an impact he had on my life and how much I appreciated his guidance and encouragement.

Mr. Timms sent me a nice reply shortly thereafter, and, yes, he remembered and thanked me for my kind words. On a sad note, he passed away several months later. Although saddened, I thanked God for giving me the chance to connect with Mr. Timms, even though it was only for a short time. Later I received a very nice note from his daughter who thanked me for taking the time to write her father who had been warmly touched by this thoughtfulness. She even had my letter published in the local newspaper as a memorial to her father and the impact he had on those who knew him.

For those of you who teach our children and serve as mentors, role models and stewards, I commend you – you do have an impact. For those of you who have been touched by someone special, let them know. It is never too late, and it is the greatest gift you can give.

— Kelly Hughes

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist