Although I’ve spoken about that day many times, each occasion is different. While the story never changes, the actual telling is never the same; I like to think it unfolds precisely how those in the audience need to hear it in order to touch a heart and maybe change (save) a life… Last Saturday, I had high hopes for making an impact; after all, the event was about driving safety, specifically organized for teens and their parents…
“Good morning, my name is… I’m just an ordinary mom of three. I live in the town of Mint Hill, not far from here. I can honestly say I never expected to be standing at the front of an auditorium full of teenagers and their parents, speaking about anything. However, four years, thirteen weeks and three days ago, my life changed forever… And now here I am…
In 2008, over 5,000 teens lost their lives in car accidents. My son Brian was one of them.”
I’ve shared Brian’s story frequently over the last three years, but this was the first time I’d ever referenced that awful statistic as the means of introducing him…
Given the time constraints and absence of photographs to accompany my words, I must have subconsciously sought out a way to engage those present from the get-go…
It could have easily been a huge mistake to do so; since I don’t often have the opportunity to appeal to parents, especially with their children sitting right beside them, it was definitely a risk. I’ve practically no experience with how to reach multiple age groups simultaneously: the elder, knowledgeable, example-setting driver and the younger, impulsive, beginning counterpart…
Judging by the visits to our table afterward, it must have been received okay; at least half of the students stopped by to pick up bracelets and pink ‘story’ sheets. Six parents made a point to thank me for coming and several went on to say they were immediately changing their own behavior regarding cell phones and driving because of what they heard…
My goal is always to persuade at least one person; on this day, I believe we reached many more… It just goes to show, if I am a willing messenger, He will deliver the message…
Wishing you many blessings, sunshine and hope…tg
Tammy will update her blog on Mondays and Thursdays
