Like children, Shrek had a knack for making people laugh and grin. He had mastered this undertaking so well that he could even do it when he was asleep or behaving badly. Simply looking at Shrek’s wrinkled face, protruding teeth, and oversized-crinkled tongue made people happy. His obnoxious snoring and deep breathing were uniquely comforting, too. Most of all, his tenacious spirit would have made Winston Churchill smile.
Sadly though, Shrek died that Monday afternoon. His departure caught us off guard, as he had shown no signs of aging. Ironically, the little dog that we loved so much passed away the same day that a disgraced Michael Vick began serving time for his merciless treatment of man’s best friend.
As Shrek passed away, I held him in my arms and told him how much we loved him. He died before getting to the vet. At Thanksgiving, we remembered the treasured time Shrek had shared with us. We smiled, too, when we saw the giant, green balloon -- of the ogre who had inspired his name -- flying high in the Macy’s Day Parade. The celebration was a fitting tribute to a little spirit who had provided so much joy -- as well as trouble -- during his short, wonderful life.
The following note from a former student conveys a touching message that many of us could share with the four-legged purposes that God has given us:
Dear Mr. Culpepper, The first day I was in your class I wanted to kill you because you'd put me on the spot with a simple question; you could tell I wasn't plugged in, and you called me on it. You weren't going to settle for [my] "stoner" image, for me to just take up space in the class. I was really mad but [the confrontation] also challenged me. It made me take a hard look at myself and motivated me to prove there was more to me; you motivated me to give you my best. You also reminded me of my love for literature. You were the first teacher to confront me, to make me care, and over time you gave me a lot of self-confidence with my writing. It really made a difference in me. After completing your class, I looked at teachers differently. I began participating, got more out of classes, and was able to connect with other teachers. I want you to know that you got through to me; it will have a positive influence on me forever. Thank you! Nick
Nick’s thoughtful letter articulates the message I have for Shrek. I want him to know that he got through to me. And I know that his incredibly obstinate will was the divine influence I needed.