Donna James speaks with students at North Habersham Middle School about their upcoming class field trip to Charleston and what it took to make it possible.
Unseen blessings. When we were 8th graders, did we know what that really meant? These Bobcats do. They have seen blessings – tangible touches on their lives by teachers and fellow students and families. But they know about the unseen, too. Those who responded anonymously to the Charleston Challenge. Those whose names they will never know who simply stepped up to make a difference in their lives.
READ: North Habersham Middle School Students Reach Fundraising Goal
Diamond speaks passionately about all those in the community who have given. Her heart is so full of gratitude. In October, she knew it could be done and was willing to put her best effort forward to make it happen. What surprised her was the kids who really stepped up. The 6th and 7th graders who helped out. Even the goofy kids, the ones she didn’t expect, worked to make this dream a reality. “They learned to wrap presents!” She was shocked and pleased and proud.
Learning to wrap presents was one of the toughest things for Chase. He claims that he’s still not quite proficient but he did it. He was able to walk through the regifting room and assist kids in need with selecting gifts for their moms or dads or siblings. He was more compassionate than he thought. More grateful than he could imagine.
Mariela has learned so much. “Don’t give up too early,” she said. “Believe in yourself and all you can do.” In the regifting room, she listened to kid’s stories. She learned compassion. Through the Builder’s Club and Bobcat Time, she became part of a group whose mantra become “I think we can!”
So many kids said “I didn’t know I could do that.” They have found themselves to be more able than they thought. Able to listen and truly care. Able to work long hours to turn a dream into a reality. Getting to go to Charleston and Patriot’s point, spending the night on the boat, seeing the sun rise and sun set over the ocean all going to be fun. But the best part? Alyssa said “Spending time with friends.” Tanner said “going outside of our usual lives and getting to know each other better.”
All kinds of unseen blessings will surely crop up in the months and years ahead for these Bobcats. They will have an unimaginable positive effect on our community. These future leaders are certain to hold these lessons in their hearts and make decisions based on what they are currently absorbing: honesty, integrity, compassion, understanding, and peace.
So, thank you. Thank you to the teachers and administration. Thank you to the parents and families. Thank you to you, NowHabersham readers. You have made a difference in the lives of these kids who will in turn make a difference in the future of our community. The future looks bright!
Go Bobcats!
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