Influencing the Next Generation
Submitted by Michelle ZupanMy inspiration is my aunt Peggy. She passed away last fall, but her incredible gift to me lives on. She was an elementary school librarian and mentored countless children who came from very difficult circumstances, including me, through kind words, hugs, and Hershey's kisses. She lived by the mottos "what doesn't kill us makes us stronger" and "don't sweat the small stuff". Today, I try to replicate her efforts by mentoring children through encouragement, opportunities, and Hershey's kisses. When faced with a child who is angry or acting out I always think to myself, "What would Peggy have said and what would she do?" Her instincts about kids were always spot on and I hope I honor her legacy by being even 1/10th as effective as she was in life.
