Sometimes it is the things you like least you gain the blessings you cherish most. I got a call the other day to write a little about Jenna. Wow what a blessing. After a little reflection I realized I don't tell my kids about the blessing they are in my life. Each one really adds their unique influence on my life and I appreciate their influence. They are so good to me. I'm glad to be on this journey of life with them.
Anyway, here is the bit I wrote about Jenna.
Jenna Harris is a fun loving, conscientious young women. Her smile is delightful and her laugh is contagious. Full of conversation, she drives away the silence of solitude and fills it with fabulous friendship and fun. She has a way of taking the everyday and making it extraordinary. Her attitude of consideration for those around her shows in her conversation and sensitivity to each situation.
Deep down she faces the same challenges of uncertainty experienced by emerging high school students, but to see her interact with friends, associates and strangers you would not know it. She has a quiet confidence which seems to stem down to her very soul. This deeper strength reveals itself in a variety of settings.
Jenna's recent responsibilities as "Mary" in Davis High's presentation of The Secret Garden shows this strength. After each performance she would ask the anxious questions, "How did I do?", "What worked?", "What can I improve?". It might of appeared she was lacking in confidence; however, before each performance she would draw on her inner strength and would perform with a grace and gratitude larger than life. The balance of being an innocent little child in the part of Mary merged with the maturity required to command the spotlight as Jenna provided each audience with a richly entertaining evening. People were touched because the acting did not get in the way of the meaningful message. A wonder to watch.
Each day is another day of delight for those who know and deal with Jenna Harris. Each of us can embrace the surprise of spontaneity we will experience as we interact with this young woman and her associates.
Hope you enjoyed. Best of a great new day enjoying the pains and blessings life provides.
My friend, Steve Allen, passed away today. Every morning Steve and his family deliver newspapers. Foul weather, holidays, illness or car problems have not stopped this family from delivering the paper. Years of diligence and consistent performance. Amazing.
This morning Steve was not feeling well. He has had some unexplained pains in his legs for the last few days. Friday night he was walking with a limp. In his usual way, he discounted his discomfort and expressed hope the doctors would come to some conclusion this week.
Sunday morning Steve was delivering newspapers as always, despite the pain and discomfort. Around 6 am he began to experience pre-heart attach feelings. (He has had several of these attachs before.) He called his daughter to have her bring his medicine. Once he took his medicine without response his daughter said we are going to the hospital. Steve insisted in driving his car to a nearby church so it would be easily picked up. Then off they went.
The hospital was advised of Steve's condition en route. On arrival, Steve was telling the staff of allergies, medications, his doctor and such. Then it happened. Massive heart attach. His daughter ushered out as the hospital staff launched into life saving measures. Despite their valiant efforts, Steve Allen passed away. Today was his time to return home.
When the doctor came out to tell the family the end results, Steve's daughter was the only one there. Where was the family... they were finishing newspaper delivery. What an amazing family.
Steve Allen did as he always does, perform his duty despite personal pain and discomfort.
So today... for Steve Allen ... newspaper delivery done.
