My colleague T.J. Barber just left the Guideposts family for an amazing new opportunity last week. I was sad to see one of my office buddies go, but I can hardly wait to see where God takes her next.
I worked with T.J. for more than two years, but one moment in particular sticks out. Recently, I discovered that T.J. had been giving extra magazine issues in our office a brand new lease on life.
You see, a few years ago, T.J.’s 85-year-old grandmother, Johnnie Mae, and her sister, Joan, felt compelled to do something to help the needy in Atlanta, Georgia, where they live. They put together care bags of food, soap, socks and other essentials. Today they distribute anywhere from 50 to 150 bags a week!
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Last year, Johnnie Mae told T.J. she wanted to add reading material to the bags, a little bit of inspiration. When T.J. heard that, she was struck by an idea. Those extra magazine issues in the office–what better home for them than her grandmother’s care bags?
Right away, T.J. sent Johnnie Mae copies of Mysterious Ways, Guideposts and Angels on Earth magazines–they’re now a regular feature in the bags.
I was so moved when I saw the photos of the care bags with Mysterious Ways magazine peeking out. Just like her grandmother and great aunt, T.J. saw a chance to spread a little kindness in the world and she took it. No hesitation. She just went for it.
There are opportunities to do good all around us, often closer than we think. And sometimes you just have to seize them à la T.J., Johnnie Mae and Joan!
