A collection of 101 short essays and tributes to unsung heroes, recognizing and expressing appreciation for the hidden "gifts" that life's journey brings. Excellent for use as gifts and premiums, as well as for personal enrichment and enjoyment. John Wayne "Jack" Schlatter, author of some of the most beloved stories in the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series, now comes forth with his own collection of inspirational writings. Sharing lessons, insights, and humor gathered over 35 years in the classroom and as a member of one of the most amazing families in America, he will touch your heart, tickle your funny bone, and enrich your wisdom. Three of his stories in particular have had a tremendous impact on the American culture. "I Am a Teacher" is one of the most widely read and reprinted tributes of the last ten years. "The Simple Gesture" has been known to save lives and form new friendships and has been rewritten and retold throughout the nation. "The Magic Pebbles" received a great compliment from Jack Canfield, coauthor of the "Chicken Soup" series. Asked by Modern Woodman magazine to choose the single story which meant the most to him, he named "The Magic Pebbles." Inspired by Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, whose dreams "woke him up," Mr. Schlatter has become aware of the countless gifts left by the side of the road of life. In this book he shares his discoveries. "Jack Schlatter is a charismatic, consummate communicator who will have you laughing through your tears as he squeezes your heart with timeless truths." - MARK VICTOR HANSEN, Co-Author of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series. "Do not pass up the opportunity to be entertained and inspired by this amazing human being." - JACK CANFIELD, Co-Author of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series. "Every person should have a copy of this book on their bedside table for a last thought at night or a first thought in the morning. I would have loved this book if I had never met the author, but I have had the immense pleasure of watching Jack give a gift to every person he comes in contact with. He has the sensitivity to help each person he meets to get in touch with their "Real Self" the true person inside, even if it is just for a moment. It is his unconditional love for each and every person he has the blessing to come into contact with that allows those people to also see and feel themselves as Jack sees them, as a beautiful creation, worthy of the best that this world has to offer, to be acknowledged for who they really are. I have seen the light come to their eyes. Jack is at his best with young people; just a touch of Jack goes a long way in helping them know their real value. I think Jack's greatest gift is his ability to see beyond exterior behavior to the pure essence of everyone he comes in contact with, and more so helps them to see it also. His gift for putting in words what most of us only feel when we are in our deepest self is one of the most amazing talents I have witnessed. It has been one of the great pleasures in my life to have known him personally and through his works, and I would want to share that experience with as many people as possible." - Ann Friedly