The Influences in My Life

 
 
     From my family to sports, many things have influenced my life.  It is difficult to choose the most important person or thing that has affected me so I shall begin with the people I love the most, my family.
 
     Since I was born, I have lived in my grandparents home with my family.  Until my grandma passed away , I had spent every day of my life with her.  She taught me what it was like to be loved, to feel safe, to laugh and always feel special.  My grandfather is still alive and he shows me how to be a gentleman and a good person.  I know how it feels to be loved , for he supports me in everything I do.  He teaches me how important tradition and family can be.  Most nights of the week, we have dinner as a family with my grandfather at the head of the table, leading us in grace.  Dinner time is family time and it has taught me how to appreciate being together.
 
     My mother does many things that influence my life.  She shows me how much she loves me every day by doing nice things for my sister and me.  She is always there whether at home, at school, sports events or whenever I need her.  She teaches me to always be a good person, to be kind and respect others.  She hugs me when I need it and she cares for me every day.  She works hard at her job to help me have a better life.  She is always teaching me life lessons that will help me grow.
 
     My dad is a great dad.  He supports me in all my sports.  When I need help fixing or building something or just shooting baskets, he is there.  He is kind and always a gentleman.
 
     Sports influence my life because they are fun, challenging and teach me to respect my body by keeping it healthy, by not smoking or doing drugs.
 
     These are some of the most important people and things that have influenced me.  i know that I am special, loved and cared for every day.  When I grow up, I hope to become just like them because they are wonderful examples to follow.  I feel very blest to have learned from them

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Michael Hinz - Grade 7 - Stella Maris

The Touch of God’s Love
        (Sept. 11, 2001)

One thing will always stand out about that day.

Through the suffering and the anguish

there was something that could be felt - love.

This love, stronger than any other,

brought out something in everybody.

Although the terror and dread seemed to take over,

one special light remained through the despondency

of it all: the boundless and vast love of our God.
 

Keith Finer - Grade 8 - Our Lady of the Hamptons

 

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