I was driving home from the post office when I heard this beautiful story on Colorado Public Radio. Fifty-one-year-old Larry Israelson sought out his past favorite middle school teacher to try and make amends for having dropped his teacher’s class without explanation. That act alone would have made for an interesting story. What made Larry’s story notable was that after 39 years, Larry located his teacher, Mr. Atteberry and actually made amends.
What struck me was Larry Israelson’s genuineness. He had no ulterior motive. As a result of Larry’s actions, his children were able to witness their father model integrity and loving-kindness. Furthermore, because of Larry’s actions, other people who hear the story are now looking at their own lives, experiences, and relationships and seeking to make amends.
Time doesn’t heal all wounds. Coming forward with an open heart is what begins the healing process. In Larry’s story, Mr. Atteberry mirrored an open heart and sealed the deal.
Unfortunately, sometimes our own packages aren’t tied with a pretty bow. For instance, sometimes the following alternatives can occur:
- We may seek to make amends with someone, and we get the door slammed in our face.