REFORM OF A PROBLEM STUDENT An American college professor tells the story of how his life was transformed 180 degrees because of a humble man’s willingness to risk time and money in his future. “I spent most of my high school days in the principal’s office being disciplined for creating problems in class. My family life was a mess and I worked out my frustration in the classroom. I gained a reputation as a troublemaker. “As punishment for some of my anti-social behavior, I was given work detail after school. “The school janitor Ernie, was a short, stocky man who spoke English with a heavy accent. He worked quickly and demanded that I do the same – all the time peppering me with questions about my interests and ambitions. At the end of my forced week’s work, Ernie asked me If I was interested in a part-time job. I could not believe anyone was willing to hire me, but quickly said yes. Under Ernie’s direction, I worked after school everyday for two hours. He talked to me as a friend and complimented each task I completed. “Gradually I began to like myself better and trips to the discipline office grew less frequent. I graduated at 18 and enlisted in the service. Ernie came down to the bus station to give me my final pay and a bear hug for good luck. “I loved Ernie, but it was not until many years later that I learned just how special he really was. My part-time job had been Ernie’s invention! And my pay had come out of his meager earnings. “No school board had budgeted extra money, Ernie had. The stocky man with the big heart paid to save a troubled kid – and it worked.” What is the implication of this story? This true story teaches that: 1) the goodness, understanding and generosity of one man changed the life of a problem student; 2) the challenge of a meaningful endeavor (part-time job) is transforming; 3) in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus, says: “Do good, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High” (Luke 6,32).
Posted on: Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:37:33 +0000
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