I believe it’s impossible to be hateful when you’re grateful. Every morning in my daily prayers, I thank God for everything in my life, especially the trials that were some of the darkest periods of my life.

I confess that I didn’t enjoy those times but realize they were necessary for me to depend on Him more.

When I was discharged from the Navy and before I was married, I had a desire to be a teacher and a coach.

That was my goal, but God had a different plan. I soon got married, started raising a family and had many different jobs.

I got caught up in the ways of the world that are contrary to God’s laws and I developed an addiction to alcohol.

With the support of my wife, my family and many caring friends, I was able, through the grace of God, to defeat that addiction.

Because of that battle, God directed me to be a laborer in His ministry of “Get High on Life.” I’m amazed how God will use the foolish things of the world to confound the so-called wise.

Do I have any regrets?

Not many, but mainly for the people I hurt who loved me the most. I have been forgiven by God and also by those I offended.

Because of their forgiveness, I’m able to enjoy a peace that only comes from God.

Today, I’m excited that God has given me a ministry which teaches others how to lead a drug-free life.

The vision for my life was to be a teacher and a coach. God’s purpose for my life is to teach and coach people with problems that God has a purpose for each of their lives and His plan is exciting and meaningful.

As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week — May 2 through May 6 — my challenge to all teachers is to be successful, your chosen profession should be a ministry and not a job.

Your opportunity to instruct and mold the young people you teach is an awesome responsibility.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, let’s encourage our teachers to be the best that they can be.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477, or email hkeller@comcast.net.