Denise graduating from the University of the West Indies

Two and one half years ago, my sister had attended a meeting and came back telling me about the wonderful work that Lorna Stanley was doing in the inner-city of Trench Town. I was so struck by what my sister told me about this woman that I told myself, “This is a lady I would like to meet.”

It would seem as if this was destined to happen as a short while later, I read a newspaper article about a motivational skit Lorna Stanley had produced entitled “I, too, can become Prime Minister, on the occasion of the Prime Minister’s visit to the Restoration Christian School.

I was really convinced then that I did indeed want to alongside this woman so I promptly called and volunteered my services. I was then attending the University of the West Indies and although my schedule was demanding. But, for two years, I joined Mrs. Stanley in cooking meals for the children, cleaning the school, coordinating summer programmes and teaching young boys and girls how to read and write. I have no regrets about giving of my time, as working as a volunteer I have learnt from Mrs. Stanley that the greatest leaders are those who truly know the art of servant hood.

I have just recently graduated with honors from the University of the West Indies but I have still chosen to work at the Restoration Christian School where I am being trained as an Executive Assistant. If I didn’t realize it before, I now know that my coming to work at this school has been by divine appointment.

Restoration Christian School has changed my entire outlook on life. Working with the children has given me a sense of hope for my beloved country. Working in such a volatile community has made me feel a sense of purpose and meaning for my life.

I have also become more confident and I am now determined to be the best at what I do because Mrs. Stanley has also taught me that whatever I do must be done to the best of my ability. She never ever settles for second best.

Most of all, I have learnt to love unconditionally. Mrs. Lorna Stanley has taught me that love conquers all. She works unselfishly and assiduously to accomplish even the most menial task and the grueling challenges she is constantly faced with.

Everyone has a philosophy and I know Mrs. Stanley has many. But, the one that stands out most for me is her constantly saying that the greatest gift that one can give, is the gift of self. This has stuck with me and like my mentor I, too, want to do this for the rest of my life.

Denise Adams

November, 2002