Music Teacher in Ukraine

It’s taken me a couple of days to try to find the words to explain why this meant as much as it did to me. So… here goes nothing.
I got the chance to lead some wonderful kids from the Joy center in playing music. The Joy center is a place that is for kiddos with special needs. No matter where they are on the spectrum they are welcome. It was started because so many of these kids and their families aren’t welcome into churches because they have different ticks. Like screaming randomly, hitting the table multiple times, hitting their heads, or being loud. They wanted a place to allow for these kiddos to be themselves, while being loved on and cared for and being taught that their Heavenly Father Loves them. We each got a kid to love on this month. My kid’s name was ???? (Ilya). 
So, three weeks ago, while here in Ukraine, I found out that my band director and mentor, Mr Darin K. Johns passed away. He taught me so much. He taught me the love for music I have. If he didn’t encourage me to try out for percussion I might not have done it. I probably wouldn’t have stayed in band. I probably wouldn’t have ever learned to read music and play piano. Which lead me to learning many more instruments. Mr John’s, he changed my life. He helped me become who I am today.
So, when the ladies asked me to lead music I was extremely hesitant. I knew it would be hard. I knew it would bring back memories. I knew it would hurt, but I said yes. Not for me. Not for the ladies at Joy center. But for the kids. Was I scared? Yes. Was I hesitant? Yes. Was it worth it? Yes. I got to give just a portion back of what Mr. Johns gave to me.
I saw so many of the kiddos love playing music. It wasn’t complicated. It was just for them to simply hit the claves/tambourine/bells while the music played and for them to stop when it stopped. They loved it. Some of them, who were normally quiet, started to play loudly and on beat. The slightest smile made you know that he loved to play.
I thank you God for the hard times. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t have them. I wouldn’t be spreading Your love here in Ukraine if You didn’t allow me to grow through them. Mr. Johns I love you! More than words could ever say. Our memories keep me going every day. They keep pushing me to be the best man I can be. I want to be like you when I grow up. I want to show people the love of God in everything from playing music, serving others, or just being silly. Thank you for everything you’ve ever done for me. Your legacy didn’t stop when you went to play music with Jesus. You left many people with love, kindness, and an example. Just as Paul said, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ.” I will imitate you, Mr. Johns. As you Imitated Christ as best as you could!