“No distance of place 
or lapse of time can 
lessen the friendships 
of those who are 
thoroughly persuaded 
of each other’s worth.”
Robert Southey

Yes, it’s been 51 years since I taught at Saint Augustine’s College (grades 7 through 12) in Nassau. Despite this passage of time, I feel blessed to still be in contact with many of my former students. Sadly, a number of them have passed, including three from the photo above, but most of those I taught are alive and well, ranging in age from 62 to 70. Many no longer live in Nassau. Some have moved to the family islands, while others settled in the United States or other parts of the world. 

Visiting Nassau provides an opportunity for me to connect with some of these individuals. I’m hoping to see many of them at the book signing event in the school library on the 29th.

It’s humbling, and affirming, to meet up with former students and have them tell me that I made a difference in their life. American historian Henry Brooks Adams wrote, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” While I certainly agree with this claim, Adams’ words apply to more than just teachers. One of the great challenges of life is to acknowledge that each one of us, regardless of our career path, has the potential to influence others, for good or for bad. 

One of my favorite human beings is Jimmy Carter. He may best be known as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981, but he inspired more people in his years after leaving the White House. He committed himself to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization committed to building more prosperous and vibrant communities by making sure everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home. His commitment to the program was more than just a post-presidential photo-op.

As a skilled carpenter, Carter was a hands-on builder who, with a tool belt and hard hat, worked on-site, bringing national attention to the need for decent housing. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, in part due to his commitment to social welfare. 

In a memorable statement, Carter said, “I have one life and one chance to make it count for something… My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I can, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have, to try to make a difference.”  

It is encouraging to see many of my former SAC students doing just that — making a positive contribution to the community by sharing their gifts to make a positive difference in the world.