A Role Model You've Never Heard of: How to be a Positive Influence

God has one awesome dude to hang out with now. 

I had a friend pass away in an automobile accident last week, and the response I saw on his Facebook was amazing, and it got me thinking about how many lives we touch in the course of our existence on this earth.

I had the utmost pleasure in attending college and playing baseball with Keith for two years, and in those two years I don't know if anyone ever made me laugh any harder - that kid knew how to enjoy life.  He always had a smile on his face and a laugh bellowing from his insides. A mutual friend told me that he was the happiest person she had ever met. I may have seen him upset once or twice, but he always shook it off and continued to be a positive influence to the people with whom he shared life.  You could talk to him about anything - he wouldn't judge you or make fun of you (too much... ) - and always seemed to have the right words to say.  He will be missed greatly by all those who had the honor of knowing such a hero.  Sleep well airman and friend, your life has touched us all.

So have you been a positive influence on people's lives?  Who have you been in contact with recently who needed a smile or helping hand?  Who did you give a smile to and not even know that they desperately needed it?  My point is you never know who is watching or how you are affecting someone else's life - so be like Keith and be a positive role model and supporter - whether it's just cracking a joke or having a serious life conversation.  Shine your light and never let it fade or dim, because there are people who need you to be their beacon of hope.  Jesus is the beacon for salvation, as Keith knew very well, but we are the vessels that spread that good news and the positive message. 

In his short 23 years, Keith spread joy and laughter, the message of salvation and hope, and touched the lives of countless people.  Follow in his footsteps.  Who have you positively influenced lately?

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words."  - 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

See you then, Keith.  Miss ya buddy. 

JrV