Jim T

My hero was not a war hero, a fireman, or superman. In fact, he wasn’t anything in particular. Jim was an elderly man who sat in the back of my church with his frail wife. Never did he make a scene, or draw any attention to himself. Never did he ask for anything, even when he most needed it. But, he was always there to listen and to love.
Jim took an interest in me after I had performed with the other youth in my church. We have a puppet program that performs in our community. To this day, I do not know why Jim chose me over all the other kids, but I am so thankful he did.
After one of our performances, Jim, a man that I had never spoken too, wrapped his arms around me in a loving hug. This was the beginning of a wonderful friendship, of almost a century's difference in age.
Jim, at age 90 was an adventurer. And I, 13 at the time played life safe. As I got to know him better, he began to tell me stories of his past, and dreams about his future. He never let his age catch up to him, and was always up for a challenge. He had inspired me to make a difference in this world, and to always be ready for an adventure.
This past summer, Jim died. I had gone to visit him, and say my goodbyes. His last words to me were the most inspirational. I cried and cried, so scared of my friends soon to be death. And he, didn’t shed a single tear. He told me, not to worry, because he is not afraid. He is looking for bigger, better things. And I know, that Jim is on the greatest adventure of his life.
As for me, I have learned to take charge. I now live life in search of adventure and love. I, at age 16, now run the puppet and youth programs at my church. I still have many adventures ahead of me, all of them being inspired by my old friend with a young heart, Jim.

Submitted by Anonymous

Inspiration