A Joy To My Heart

A JOY TO MY HEART

When I was a teacher, I handled Grade Six (elementary grade level in the Philippines) as my supervisory class for many years. In 2002, I was still coping and grieving the loss of my beloved father when I had a batch of the brightest and most thoughtful students. Each one did shine at his/her best whether in academics or extra curricular. GOD put back the smile on my lips. Little did I know that one of them will be closest to my heart to this day.❤️

This young lass is fondly called ‘Dani’. She was not only an A1 student but an awesome singer and eloquent speaker. As she joined the interschool competition, she performed at her best and brought honor to her alma mater. In pursuing excellence, she had shown determination and perseverance. Most of all, she is so loving, respectful, sincere and loyal. 💖

Even after her graduation from elementary, we are keeping in touch. No time or distance could break the ties we have. One summer, when most students were on vacation, she planned a birthday surprise for me with her classmates. Then, when she was in high school she collaborated for another birthday surprise for me. I had photos captured to relive those precious moments.📷

I am grateful to GOD that I had seen her teenage years and witnessed her life’s milestones. She was already a freshman student in college when she sent a back to back long handwritten letter for me updating about her journey through college life.💌

On her 18th birthday, I was so amused that most of her guests called me her favorite teacher. A meaningful event unfolded as we all looked upon the entrance of Dani in the ballroom. The debutant was so lovely and glowing in her Bollywood attire. Sending her off officially as an adult in such a warm and joyous celebration made me teary eyed. My baby blossomed into beautiful person inside and out. She soared high but remained grounded.👩🏻‍⚖️

Afterwards, she graduated from college and pursued a career in the corporate world. Time and distance did not cut our ties. Our ramdom meet-ups have always been so fruitful and blessed moments. She even drove and brought me home though my place is too far on our last meeting. She has not changed but has become a better person.👍

Time flies so fast, she got engaged to a very respectful young man who introduced himself to me the first time I met him in a restaurant. He recognized my face because he had seen me through the photos of Dani. Then, two months ago, I received a wedding invitation from her. I would be able to see her walk down the aisle to her forever. 👰🏻A new season in her life is about to begin five days from now. My little girl is about to embark into a lifetime commitment.😭

I pray that the LORD will guide her in every step of the way as a wife to her husband and as a mother to their children. 🙏 Dani is one of my greatest blessings in life and will always be like my own daughter – a bundle of joy to my heart.❤️