Sometimes teachers inspire students; sometimes, it’s the other way around, as is the case with Gloria, one of my students, who is studying to become a nurse.
From the first day she entered my classroom, Gloria was resolute, giving undivided attention to what was being discussed, taking notes incessantly, and asking questions.
If I called on Gloria and her response was wrong, she wasn’t deterred; she’d think a moment, and then ask, “Why?” — a sure sign that she was determined to learn as much as possible. I quickly realized that this young woman was no ordinary student. Recently, she demonstrated that she is no ordinary human being.
Gloria was driving when suddenly she witnessed another vehicle go out of control and crash. Instantly, she skidded to a stop, sprang from her car, ran to help, and was joined by several others.
Even though it appeared that the man was dead, Gloria’s heart told her to hold his hand, to talk to him, comfort him as best she could, and encourage him to hang on for the sake of family members and friends who loved him. Sadly, the man’s injuries were fatal.
As is often the case when deeds requiring heroic actions are thrust upon people, what Gloria did never entered her mind until the incident was over. Then, remembrance began taking its toll, leaving her with feelings of despair and a heavy heart. The scene kept replaying itself in her mind, and she cried a lot.
The deceased man’s wife asked Gloria to attend the family visitation so that his survivors could express their appreciation for her efforts. While she is never at a loss for words in the classroom, she was uncertain about what to say to the mourners, and contacted me for suggestions. I assured her that if she spoke from her heart, what she said would be what she should say, and that, most importantly, she should tell them that she hoped to give their lost loved one what he needed most: reassurance that he was loved.
Having become well acquainted with Gloria, I’m not surprised by her heroic efforts. She is a strong human being. Every day, from dawn until well into the night, she is pressured by ceaseless responsibility. A single mother, she works to support herself and her son, and she is also a full-time student. But instead of complaining, she cheerfully notes that the light at the end of the tunnel is steadily getting brighter.
Gloria, of all precious gems, diamonds are the most beautiful. They get that way after being hardened by eons of pressure. Strong people are like diamonds; they are toughened by life’s demands, hardships and disappointments, by responsibilities and pressures that never seem to stop building.
But, young lady, what those people don’t realize at the time is that, like diamonds, they are being strengthened to the point that they inspire others and are viewed as role models. They become beautiful; they become diamonds. Gloria, you are a diamond.
Jimmy Reed——
Bio and Archives
Jimmy Reed is an Oxford, Mississippi resident, Ole Miss and Delta State University alumnus, Vietnam Era Army Veteran, former Mississippi Delta cotton farmer and ginner, author, and retired college teacher.
This story is a selection from Jimmy Reed’s latest book, entitled The Jaybird Tales.
Copies, including personalized autographs, can be reserved by notifying the author via email (.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)).
