Reflection

One of my professors in graduate school used to say frequently, “You never know how far your influence may reach.” As a teacher and school administrator, I know this is true, despite limited empirical data.

I think it’s a fair conservative estimate to say that in my career, I have taught over one thousand students. Due to one circumstance or another, and with a few exceptions, I rarely see them after the last day of school.

Therefore, I can’t say for certain that they are or are not using the principles I attempted to impart while in my class. What I do know is that for the less than one percent I have encountered later, even fewer provide feedback.

Those that have truly have surprised and inspired me, because their takeaway generally had nothing to do with the lesson plan, but it had everything to do with how I made them feel while under my guidance.

“If we have the faith of a mustard seed” is often used as an encouragement for perseverance; don’t give up, because it only takes a tiny bit of trust from you for God to do great things. I won’t argue that point at all.

However, let’s consider another view. If the way we are perceived by others is the mustard seed, we may not be around when the full tree blooms, but our “seeds” of attitude, behavior, and treatment of others will (for better or worse) go far.

Whether we know it or not, whether we intend it or not, the seeds we sow every day take root – some good, some ill. Jesus calls us in this parable to be more mindful of the seeds we’re sowing.

Action

Reflect on a time when you may have helped or comforted someone; give thanks for this gift of Providence. 

Has there been a time when you may have caused injury with your words or (in)actions? Ask for the grace to do better in the days ahead. Consider this prayer as a model