Generosity: The Ripple Effect

Image via Pixabau

“I found it! I found it!” I exclaimed.

My family looked at me with strange curiosity as I held up the book Charlotte’s Webb. This book, along with a ceramic Care Bear, is my most treasured childhood possessions.

Photo of April White
My appendix ruptured when I was in the forth grade, flooding my body with toxins. The emergency surgery left an ugly scar, which now serves as my visual reminder that God saved my life! During my lengthy hospital stay, I had many visitors including my teacher. Mrs. Hodges brought me a copy of Charlotte’s Web, the book our class was reading, and a ceramic Care Bear figurine named Wish Bear.

After returning to the classroom, I was behind in math. Understanding long division seemed beyond my reach. Mrs. Hodges tutored me every day after school. With her help and inspiration from the Wish Bear figurine, I eventually mastered long division. This little bear provided inspiration in the fourth grade and beyond. 

My struggle with mathematics pursued me in undergraduate and pharmacy school.  I sought tutoring in Calculus, Physics, and Pharmacokinetics. I did not allow my struggle with math to hinder my desire to become a pharmacist. Wish Bear sat atop my desk and inspired me in elementary school, JMU and pharmacy school. This little bear is my visual reminder of Matthew 19:26, “with God all things are possible.” Nothing is out of God’s reach!

[bctt tweet=”We may never know the ripple effect of one simple act of generosity.” via=”no”]

Thirty years later, a wave of nostalgia washed over me as I read Charlotte’s Webb to my own fourth grade daughter. I look into the eyes of my precious girl, thinking she is the age I was when I was hospitalized; when life itself seemed beyond my reach. I touch the rough abdominal scar and tears puddle on the book. Rachel looks up, concern on her face, and I hug her tight. I retell the story of my traumatic fourth grade event and how God saved my life.

Photo courtesy of April WhiteThe Care Bear figurine remains atop my desk. Thirty years later, this gift is a visual reminder that with God, nothing is beyond my reach.

We may never know the ripple effect of one simple act of generosity. Inspired to share this story, I wrote Mrs. Hodges and thanked her for being a wonderful teacher and for inspiring me that nothing was beyond my reach.

Have you experience the ripple effect of someone’s act of generosity? If so, share that memory with others or with the giver.

April Dawn White

April White is a pharmacist who dispenses spiritual medicine for a healthy soul. She is quick to say she doesn't have it all together but relies on the One who does. Drag your chair next to April's red chair and allow hope and encouragement to infuse your heart. April has a BS degree in biology from James Madison University and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Shenandoah University. Email April or visit her at www.AprilDawnWhite.com

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