Don't Forget Where You Came From

I grew up in the Mississippi Delta, Greenwood, MS! This past Friday night Pillow Academy celebrated Homecoming and brought back championship teams from it's inaugural year, 1969 and also for 1979, 1989, and 1999. I was on the 1989 State Championship Cross Country team. So Jeff and my dad and I drove to Greenwood Friday night and enjoyed seeing lots of people I have not seen in many years. I got to introduce Jeff (and show him off) to many friends from my high school days. What fun to laugh and remember things from high school. Everyone is doing well and seemed great. I was thankful for teachers and coaches that influenced me and was reminded of the blessings of friends who impacted my growth. We have all grown up and it was neat to see the directions we have all taken. Not sure we can all run 6 minute miles (sub 5 minute miles for Charlie) anymore but we all still have our own joints! I firmly believe we must not ever forget who God puts in your life as you are growing up because He uses all that to shape us into who He wants us to be now - for our Good and His Glory. We are not finished growing and are influencing others one way or the other as we live. Ponder where you came from...Don't forget your roots. Track down a teacher or coach and send them a note or call or email of thanks.
Way to Go Mustangs!


I tracked down my former Gymnastics/Ballet Coach. I quit gymnastics at the age of 13 but never forgot Aubrey. I'm thankful my parents introduced me to gymnastics and ballet and to her. At the time, I could have done without the ballet but it was good for me. I can watch ballet now and appreciate the skill. The callouses on my hands came from the uneven parallel bars and those on my feet from the toe shoes. At one time, I could do 5 back handsprings - remember that was 23 years ago! I also know I can't quit and have to practice, practice, practice to do things with excellence because that's what she did. And she made it fun! I cannot watch the Nutcracker or hear it's music without thinking of her because we performed it under her direction twice. She had a glow and still does. She is still coaching. I saw her for 30 seconds on Saturday in between floor routines at a competition in Starkville, MS. What a true joy to see her! Thanks for all you did for me, Aubrey! You are grace and beauty and I appreciate you!