Perhaps it was a radical idea to plan the silly shoe day for a Wednesday.

Whether or not I should have, that’s what I did… grade four marched loudly and proudly into the church for devotions with the whole school. They were wearing an odd assortment of their mom’s high heeled boots, big animal slippers, cowboy boots, silly socks, and sandals.

This parade was led by the instigator of this madness, otherwise known as the grade four teacher. What adorned my feet? A pair of very fuzzy, very large bear paw slippers…

So maybe some of the students think I’m a crazy teacher. Maybe some of my co-teachers questioned my professionality skills. Teaching is a profession… but teachers shape the childhood of their students.

I don’t believe children should have a professional childhood. They need to have fun and make memories amid all the life lessons they’re learning… and sometimes, it does my adult heart good to join in the fun with them. To show them how, by my example.

I wore the slippers. I felt ridiculous. I have received a number of double takes, second looks, and horrified stares from the older students. But mostly, their shock is fading into amused smiles. They know I’m doing this for my students.

And maybe, they’re subconciously absorbing the truth that it’s okay to be yourself, to not let the fear of other’s opinions keep you from truly living.

An eighth grader approached me in the hall, walking with his usual swagger. He tried hard to ignore me. I could tell he wanted to maintain stoicism. But his eyes kept glancing back at my feet until finally, a glimmer of a smile played on his lips…

Yes! Mission accomplished. I have given someone a reason to smile.

Lord, send all of my loved ones a reason to smile today… with a brief moment of amusement, a word of encouragement, or a comforting whisper from You.

Use me, Father, to create reasons for those around me to smile. Speak through me the words their hearts may need, even if I am unaware of being used in this way. I am Yours… we all belong to You. Love Your people through me in little ways, and transform the simple moments into great miracles.

Friend, if you want to make a difference… start by living freely. Only when you forget yourself can you reach out to others.

And don’t stress about finding the perfect mission… it may be something as simple as wearing a pair of slippers that brightens someone’s day.