I had the pleasure of sitting in on a seminar with Juan Ortiz as the facilitator. He is the survivor of horrific emotional, physical and sexual abuse by his father. His story is one of courage and hope. In spite of everything he has been through he is a father, husband and successful business man. Throughout his life, God placed certain individuals who made a profound difference in his life. One person in particular was his fifth grade teacher. That teacher never gave up on him and went out of his way to make Juan feel special.
I came away from that seminar with a new appreciation for the people I have been blessed to have in my life. Juan discussed a book that he had read that said each of us have a balcony in our mind. The voices from that balcony are what make the difference in our lives. Some of the people and voices in your balcony can be loving and supportive, or perhaps harsh and negative, or maybe there is no one in your balcony. The true question is not who is in your balcony, but rather, whose balcony are you in and what is your voice saying? Be a voice of encouragement and hope to the people in your life, even the one's whose problems seem insurmountable. Take care to be an especially uplifting voice to the children who cross your path. Make yourself aware of community resources so that if you come across someone in need of help you can refer to them to the agencies and services where they can get the help they may desperately need. Of course we should know that as a Christian to be willing to share the life changing message of Jesus Christ.
There are so many ways to make a difference. Learn to be observant and I guarantee you will have opportunities to be a blessing to those around you. Remember, shout encouragement and love from your balcony!
J
p.s. If you ever get the opportunity to hear Juan Ortiz speak, jump at the chance. Don't forget that name as he will be back in the area to speak for other groups and organizations.
