WARREN - Local author David Thomas shared stories recently from his book about how his teachers in the Badger School District made a difference in his life.
Thomas, 61, who is also a speaker and life coach, spoke at the recent gathering of the Trumbull Area Reading Council about his book, "A Teacher's Gift." The book - his first - is a collection of stories about teachers who inspire others and make an impact on the world.
He said every teacher can unlock the hidden potential in their students.
"I love teachers," Thomas said. "As I look back on my life and the opportunities I have had to travel and speak around the world, what has enabled me to speak like I do is teachers.''
His teachers, especially at the elementary level, believed in him and help make a difference in his life, he said. It was that encouragement, he said, that turned a shy and sometimes insecure kid into a man who is a lead pastor for the Victory Christian Center.
"Don't think for a moment you as a teacher are not making a difference,'' he said.
Thomas said he never expected his first book to be about teachers.
Also at the event, Girl Scouts Alexandra Mijavec and Adelaide White received their Bronze Award for collecting and sorting books that TARC members donated at each meeting to the community.
Liz Delbono presented the award.