The person who has the biggest influence to me is my Grandfather. My Grandpa has inspired me in every aspect of my life. He will tell you what is on his mind and he never lets anything influence his opinion. He’s one of the nicest, most thoughtful, and funniest people you will probably meet in your life time. 

My Grandpa knows no strangers. He grew up in a small farming community in central Illinois. He was an only child and his parents loved him dearly. On his fourth birthday, his Mom died of tuberculosis. Losing his Mother affected him greatly; he became a stronger person and relied on his faith in God to see him through.  At a very young age, my Grandpa became very responsible and grown up, helping his Dad on the farm.  He learned to cook, and like all kids raised on a farm, he drove tractors and helped at planting and harvest time.  He really didn’t get to do all the things that his friends got to do because he had to help his Dad. I am thankful to have both of my parents and an uncomplicated life.

Fascinated by airplanes, it was his dream to learn to fly, and he never gave up that dream. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army.  I really appreciate him serving our country and knowing he took the chance of putting his life on the line.  When he returned home, my Grandpa took flying lessons.  He bought an airplane, and took up flying as a hobby.  His inspiration is a guide for me and others to achieve our dreams. I realize that the sky is the limit. 

My Grandpa is now 70 and retired from farming.  He’s never moved, and he still lives in the same farmhouse, however, my Grandpa and Grandma relax six months out of the year at their winter home. He has four girls that he has raised very well and I hope to raise my children in the same loving way. His seven grandchildren look up to him for encouragement and they admire him dearly.  My Grandpa has given many friends, neighbors, and stranger’s words of wisdom and he has been a mentor to help them achieve their dreams. I hope one day to be just like him with lots of friends, being helpful and kinder than necessary, and just being an example of a good person.

My Grandpa is spiritual, charitable, sincere, humble, talented, patriotic, wise, a perfectionist, curious, patient, healthy, friendly, conservative, calm, witty, successful, and hard working. I hope one day to tell my children how much my Grandpa loved God, his family, his country and how much he inspired me to do well.  His best advice is to “be yourself” and I will follow in his footsteps and “be myself.”  

      ~ Rachel Thompson, Grade 7