Today I went to the movies and saw Freedom Writers. It was the best movie that I have seen in a long time. It inspired me and moved me and has me thinking about all kinds of things. There is so much in the movie...that I wont be writing about it...but I will be writing in my blogs for awhile some of the things that stood out to me and that God is speaking to me about. One of the major ideas in the movie is about influence. It struck me that this one woman influenced her whole class of students. That was probably like 30 kids. I am sure there may have been more in her career but for the movies sake...it was about 30. When I look at my life and the lives of my friends....I see that we all influence at least 30 people. What kind of influence are we having on those people? Am I making my life count with these 30 or more people around me? I want my life to mean something. Not so they can make a movie out of it....but so that I can be something great to the people in my life. I think of them as gifts. Each one. I think of the students that allow me into their lives a gift. I think of my closest friends as gifts. I hope that they know that. I want to live more of my life showing that. I have my short-comings....and again those closest to me know that....but I know I was made for relationships. I was called by God for them....I know we all are....but today I know it is my life's calling to be in relationships. Lots of relationships. Some closer than others for whatever intention God has....but relationships none the less. This movie made me want to be a better person. To really live my life sold out to God's call. I sensed God speak to me about being a teacher this summer and I am pursuing that. Am I nervous? Sure thing!! But seeing this movie today reinforced my desire to teach. I am a teacher. It is a blessing that God has given me. And I am thankful for it. I want to grow in it....and I believe today in a couple short hours at the Emagine in Canton....I grew a little bit more.