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David Shockley

Our graduates keep making a difference in the lives of others in their families and communities.

I took the day off on Tuesday, grabbed my classical guitar, and went to the Ross Memorial Senior Citizen's Home. I met with the two activities directors, Angela and Andriana.

Before I knew it, I was playing "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" for Mrs. Leonard who is in her final stages of Parkinson's Disease.....and life. At that moment, I understood what my music is all about. Until now, I have played classical guitar music for basic recognition (to show off). I started playing when I was 15 years old, and the main reason was to meet and impress girls. The glow on Mrs. Leonard's face and the tears in her eyes made me realize that I have something very special to offer. She could have died at that very moment and she never would have been happier.

Make an effort to spend an hour or so at a senior citizen's home. Spend some quality time with one person who has lost the will to live. You may be able to restore that will.

I was asked to come back regularly, and I will be performing this Saturday afternoon. This time I'm taking my little grandson, Austin, who truly has the warmest and happiest spirit I have ever seen. His job will be to hold the hands and comfort my one-on-one audience...and to keep smiling. At the age of five, Austin will realize what it means to give part of yourself to someone that is suffering.

One time, I heard that "there is no place in the world for children or the elderly because they are unproductive." What a cruel thing to say. Team, make an effort to spend an hour or so at a senior citizen's home. Spend some quality time with one person who has lost the will to live. You may be able to restore that will.

God bless all of you,

David Shockley (Team 335)

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