Mentor Graham was so absorbed in grading papers, he failed to notice the young giant who slouched into his Illinois schoolroom one day after school. After his eyes had adjusted to the brightness of the late-afternoon sunshine, causing the husky young man to be in silhouette before him, he recognized the youth as a newcomer to the community. The young man already had a reputation for "whipping the daylights" out of all the local bullies.
Graham would have been justified in thinking, What does he want here? Am I in danger? Rather, he looked up and down the six-foot-four-inches of muscle and ignorance before him and offered to help the boy with his reading. When the young man left the schoolroom an hour later, he had several books under his arm--a loan from Mentor Graham with a promise of more in the future.
Few people remember Graham. He was a quiet man, simply willing to do his best for any student who came his way. His pupil, however, became far more famous. His name was Abraham Lincoln.
A kind, helpful response to others is often perceived by them as strength. It is this gently strength to which we are drawn. When you think you find yourself in a touchy situation, try a gentle touch!
Thou hast also given me the shield of Thy salvation, and Thy right hand upholds me; and Thy gentleness makes me great.
Psalm 18:35
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