Thursday, May 13, 2010

Looking Back: Cameron Thomas

One of the neat things about teaching in a small school is that you get to have kids in class on multiple occasions. The young man pictured above is Cameron Thomas who will graduate from Westbury Christian School in a week. I have been blessed to have Cameron as a student three times; in eighth grade, as a sophomore, and this year as a senior. During that five year span, I've witnessed great maturation in this young man. Cameron is an excellent Bible student and he has long lamented making a 99% for the six weeks in Bible numerous times but never quite reaching the 100%. He has now; his last test on Wednesday left him at the century mark. Cameron has an incredibly bright future as he is gifted in a wide variety of areas. Last week, I asked him if he would share his thoughts with our eighth grade boys, revealing what he wishes he had known when he was entering high school as a freshman. Here are his insights: I think you'll be impressed with his depth of perception.

As I grew older, things started to look differently, and I started to act differently. I realize now that my eighth grade year was very critical. It was important in all aspects of my life; school, athletically, and spiritually. In middle school, I didn’t build the best study habits and it carried over to high school. Athletically, I was gifted. I was foolish enough to think I could get into college on pure athleticism. Learn early as a freshman that everything counts. As a high school student, complacency will not get you to the next level. While you’re being complacent, someone else is getting better. I grew spiritually as I got into high school. I learned that God can do all things if we just have faith. You can’t stop believing if things aren’t going your way. The main thing I want to pass on is get your grades from the start of high school. I missed the opportunity of competing at several major colleges in football or track. I wish that during my eighth grade year, I would have put more effort into academics. It will pay off for you in the long run.
Best wishes,
Cameron D. Thomas
Applicable quote of the day:
"Knowledge is a process of piling up facts; wisdom lies in their simplification.''
Martin Fischer

God bless,
Steve
Luke 18:1
E-mail me at steve@hawleybooks.com

1 comment:

RHYTHM AND RHYME said...

I do enjoy your post, it gives me something to think about.
This one is no exception.

Also thanks for the visitsand comments. Much appreciated.

Yvonne.