That year, my life was in shambles. In a matter of months, I had lost my grandpa, an uncle, an aunt, my stepsister, and my childhood hero. Then COVID began and the school I worked at for almost a decade closed. I was heartbroken and angry at God. After the school closed, some students and parents began dropping off things for the teachers. Amongst the gift cards and goodies was a letter from that student. 

“Always remember, ‘Think everything in love,’ Mr. Sedam.” I was instantly reminded of the sweetness of students and the promise of God. 3 days later, I was hired at Sonrise, and those words have stuck with me ever since. 

Sometimes it can just seem like everything is going wrong, and we can become easily frustrated. I think that is a normal part of living. Sometimes we don’t know how to react or feel like the weight of the world is pushing down on us. 

But there is one thing that never changes: Jesus and His love for us. He showed us the way to treat others. But He also focused on the importance of our thoughts. He challenged cultural norms, went out of His way to talk to people who were considered outcasts, and taught people the value of human life. His example provides us with the blueprint of how we are supposed to live our lives. 

As we go through the business and stresses of life, I hope we can remember the words of my former student: “Think Everything in Love.” 

1 Corinthians 16:14: “Let all that you do be done in love.” 

Mr. Sedam
Middle School Teacher