L.W. was a mother of three children, a full-time student and an emergency medical service worker. She was a hard worker. Her work product was exceptional. I recall saying to myself, “She is destined to have a successful career.” Outside of exchanging a few pleasantries before and after class, our interactions were primarily relegated to the classroom. Inevitably, L.W. graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Minor in Political Science. She successfully transitioned to work for an Emergency Medical Services software company.

Recently, while purging some old files I discovered copies of emails, letters, and cards from former students. Admittedly, some I did not take the time to read. I stored them away thinking, “I’ll read them later when I have time.” The time finally arrived. As I started to read these emails, letters and cards, the content and tone of these messages, composed 15 to 20 years earlier, unleashed emotions I rarely experience. Yet, it was the email I received from L.W. in 2008 that captivated my attention. On Friday, April 6, 2008, L.W. wrote:

Professor Murphy:

I just wanted to take a few minutes to say thank you for the encouragement, advice, and support. . . . My dreams are finally within my reach, and with every new excitement, comes new fear[s]. Encouragement from those I respect renews my strength, and enables me to continue to put one foot in front of the other. . . . I applaud your efforts to instill in each of us the importance of looking deeper within ourselves.

If you will indulge me, I would like [to] tell you what a remarkable professor you are . . . [to me]. I watch you interact with students in the hallways, who frequently make mention of how wonderful you are [to them]. . . . I’ve taken three or four of your classes, and day after day I watch you engage a room full of students. . . . You are always prepared for class in spite of the fact that you have more than one time consuming career. All of these things are impressive. . . . [W]hat won you my utmost respect from the very beginning is the love and respect you have for your wife and your family. You mention them often in class, and whether or not you realize it, it makes a big statement. You have the admiration of your students and your peers, but in my estimation what makes you a true professional is that you openly show the same care and commitment to your family as you do to your career. That is the epitome of greatness. . . .

Respectfully, L.M.W.

Life has taught me there is an appointed time, a season for everything. Whether you believe in God and trust in His timing, none of us is capable of escaping or running away from the people and the lessons life has in store for us. Rarely are these teachable moments documented or recorded. L.W.’s words are a reminder that my interactions with all people have value, and the potential to inspire life-defining moments in others.

As divisiveness permeates the world, and seeks to destroy and take away my peace, I know I can find a quiet place to reflect on the people whose lives I have been able to positively impact with my words, example and character. L.W., albeit 12 years later, your words have renewed, inspired and motivated me to continue to do good work. I could not have read your words at a more appropriate or . . . appointed time. Thank you.