Creating a safe place for youth is my desire and I find myself more as a grandpa than a teacher, as we are sharing our life and experiences with these young adults. The other day one of our students came to me and said, “Hey, I think you live right across the street from me: I saw your truck parked in front of your house!” He was right. Last week he walked across the street and brought me a cupcake. He did this to include me in the celebration of his daughter’s first birthday. I was deeply moved by this relational gift. Later that day, my wife made up a gift basket for the little one and I brought it across the street to him. Since then, each time we come to the end of the 71Five VoTech session, this young man asks, “Larry, are you going to give us your speech today?” I am sure he is referring to my closing message. I believe crossing the street with a cupcake was a powerful way to say, “Hey Larry, I’m glad you are in my life.”

 

I don’t know how long I can keep a cupcake, but it is a constant reminder that I can be a kind of grandpa in his life and others as well. I would happily share my cupcake with you because your prayers and support are the hands and feet that reaches across the street to celebrate a birthday and shares the love of Jesus. Thank you and have a sweet day!