Me and Matthew at his dance recital this past January
One day last semester, my roommate came into the room and said that the little boy that lives across the street from the girl that she babysits needs a tutor in math. She asked all of our roommates including me if we would be interested. No one else’s schedule fit the day he was available. However, mine worked out perfectly. Plus, it was only one day a week for two hours. I debated for a little bit on whether or not I wanted to do it, but I realized the extra cash definitely wouldn’t hurt. Therefore, I called Doug, his dad, the next day to express my interest in the job. He called me back about an hour later to tell me a little bit about his son Matthew, his interests, strengths, and weaknesses and then asked for some information about me. I told him my schedule and that I was an accounting major. Coincidentally, Doug is an IT for an accountant. We chatted for a bit and planned to get together when convenient for him and his wife Kim. When I hung up the phone I was ecstatic. Everything was falling into place. Little did I know, more coincidences were to come. It took about three or four weeks for our schedules to finally match up. I got to their house around 6 o’clock on a Friday evening and Doug met me halfway down the driveway. He introduced himself and then I followed him inside their house. Kim stood up from the couch when I walked into the living room and introduced herself and Matthew. I knew immediately something was different about this family. Matthew’s skin tone is a shade darker than both his parents. I was eager to find out exactly how unique this family was. Matthew began by telling me a little bit about himself, his interests and hobbies. We discovered that we are both cat lovers which I was already thrilled about. They asked me to tell them a little bit about myself. I started with the basics about how I am a sophomore at UGA, I love water sports, and then I threw in the fact that I live with my aunt and uncle. Immediately, Matthew replied, “I live with my aunt and uncle!” I was in utter disbelief, in a good way of course. We already had two things in common. Just minutes later, Matthew left the room and I shyly asked Kim the story behind him living with them. She was very general with her details and I was very understanding. I didn’t push for too much information. I didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable or to overstep my boundaries with complete strangers. Then, she asked me if I would share my story. I was pretty open. I didn’t give too many details, but I gave enough information that provided a common ground between the two stories. Kim began asking me for advice on how to handle certain situations with Matthew. She wanted to know what to tell him if/when he ever starts to ask questions about his mother. I told her to never lie to him, but to never tell him more than he needs to know. If he asks her a specific question, then give him and honest answer. Come to find out, not only did Matthew and I have similar backgrounds but Doug and Kim could relate to me on other levels as well. After about an hour and a half of talking with them, they then invited me to dinner. I went out with them to get Mexican food, they refused to let me pay, and after three hours I finally returned home. I knew from the moment I stepped foot into their house that God had put that family in my life for a reason. I have been so blessed to have this family in my life this past year. His math has improved, I got to attend Matthew’s dance recital, and I even got the opportunity to meet his mother. Typically after tutoring, I spend about thirty minutes or so just chatting with Doug about school or looking for a place to live or Matthew’s mother or whatever. Both Doug and Kim are understanding, kind, and such a blessing in my life. They are such wonderful parents to Matthew and have welcomed me into their home with open arms. I could not be more thankful to have this family be a part of my life.
Tess' Family Tribute 