When Consultant Pam Thor was little, she didn't smile much. Teased and self-concious about her teeth (which were small and yellow, due to a childhood injury), Pam always kept her mouth closed—she comments that even when asked to smile for a photo, she kept her lips pursed tight.
It was a painful and difficult time. As an adult, she's had the blessing of having her teeth repaired, and now enjoys a beautiful smile, something she shares often and freely.
But she hasn't forgotten how lonely she felt, or how cruelly others treated her, when her smile looked different than those around her. Perhaps that's why the Operation Smile Make A Miracle Challenge has resonated so deeply with Pam. Just a few days ago, Pam remitted a significant donation to the challenge, collected from a charity crop, silent auction and other wonderful activities. My heart was so touched by the sweet e-mail Pam sent along with her donation, sharing the story of her painful youth and her commitment to better the lives of others.
She wrote:
"Last June, I quit my 19-year career as a chemical engineer. I wanted to spend more time with my children. And something in my gut was telling me that there was something else I was supposed to be doing at this stage of my life. Spending time with my kids has been wonderful. I am finding wonderfully rewarding opportunities being a Girl Scout Troop Leader. I've also been enjoying working more on my CTMH business. And now, I am getting a great deal of joy out of raising money for Operation Smile. Knowing I am helping other kids, kids who have FAR WORSE facial and teeth problems than I ever did, is providing me with a sense of peace and satisfaction. I am looking forward to continuing to help Operation Smile however I can in the future.
Thank you again for supporting this wonderful organization, reminding us how blessed we are, and giving us easy opportunities to help these children."
My dear Pam, I want you to know how much your e-mail means to me. For several children, your donation will literally change their lives for the better. As I look at the photos you sent in, I can only think that you have ALWAYS had a beautiful smile, and the beautiful spirit to match. Thank you so much!
That made me cry. What a beautiful story. Bless you, Pam!
ReplyDeleteI was injured by the school yard bully when I was 8 years old - just after my adult teeth had come in. Two of my teeth, including one of the centre top teeth, yellowed as I got older. The funny thing is my dad had the same injury from high school football - so I always loved looking like my dad. Looking back I am so grateful for good dental care (my tooth was permanently bleached after 6 root canals two summers ago) and my parent's unconditional love. I hurt for little ones who feel they can't smile - or who physicall cannot! God bless your valuable work.
ReplyDeleteJeanette,
ReplyDeleteVery moving story....by the way...
I saw on pintrest a great idea..using a glad casserole container with a hole cut in the top to make a tissue box holder for the car so the tissue box doesn't get smashed and lost... I tried it and it looks good...but...how much better would it be if you made one that was out of chip board ready to decorate and place in the car. I think everybody would want one for sure.Suzie Miller
Jeanette - thanks for sharing this story!
ReplyDeletePam - Your empathy and hard work are so inspiring! Thank you from a fellow CTMH consultant for being willing to share your story and turning your childhood trauma into good works. Big hugs to you!
Paige