Rarely do perfect days come along. However, the students at West Harrison in Mondamin have given me hope by their warm enthusiasm and belief in dreams. The evening before my speeches started out right by the generosity of the Oak Tree Inn who allowed me to stay free in their comfortable/roomy inn.

When I arrived at West Harrison I was greeted by Kelley Ruffcorn who treated me like a celebrity. The gym I spoke in was superb with an excellent sound system. The front table had a picture of me welcoming me to the school. Right off the bat, I was to speak to grades 9-12. I decided to change my routine by including the "Do-over" game. I offered the students a little bit of information about a particular dilemma and then asked them, "What would you do?" After a response, I filled in a little more detail of the situation and then asked the students again, "What would you do?" The students were not only intrigued with the game but also offered adult solutions. I finally felt I had connected with these students. What a great bunch of young adults who have bright futures ahead of them.

After my middle school presentation, I was whisked away to an English composition class where I spoke to the students about writing techniques to help them advance their writing skills. One young lady approached me to review her written story, and I was delighted to offer her some important advice.

After lunch, I walked in the gym and was surprised by the K-3 students who began singing: "Take me out to the ball game..." Their childlike voices left a lump in my throat. I have never felt so honored and privileged. We then went on to have some fun and these youngsters were so filled with joy. I then listened to some kindergartners tell me their eventful stories and finished up the day listening to Mrs. Earlywine's second grade class read their colorful stories. As each child read what they had written about snakes, torn pants, jumping on trampolines, I could see the sparkle in their eyes. Sharing your words in front of an attentive group can be such an inspiration as these children and their talented teacher had discovered.

West Harrison parents should be proud of the joy and hope these teachers have offered their students. Mrs. Ruffcorn made sure I was welcomed by all.

It isn't often I can claim of a perfect day but this was as close as it gets. I want to thank the teachers and the respectful students who offered me an out pouring of affection. If you ever think that the United States has already seen its best years visit Mondamin and the students of West Harrison and like me you'll become a believer in that our best years have yet to come.