10 . I believe we can have a big effect on anyone with whom we come into contact. Some acts that we think ________ can shape others’ future. The simple words can sometimes ________ change someone’s life.

Years ago, that was what happened to me. I was the only ________ child at Blue Elementary School. From almost the first day there, I was ________ by other kids mainly because of my hearing aid. And I also had ________ with my school work. When others laughed at me, I thought of myself as a ________ boy who wasn’t smart enough to keep up with the class.

Mrs Jordan, my 5th grade teacher, ________ all of that with a simple sentence. One morning, she asked the ________ a question. I read her lips from my front-row seat and immediately raised my hand because I knew the answer. But when she called my name, I was ________. Here was an opportunity to ________ the teacher and showed her I was worthy of her love. Maybe I would even impress my classmates a little. I didn’t want to blow it. Despite my fears, I took a deep ________ and answered her question.

I will never forget what ________ next. “THAT’S GREAT, STEPHEN!” Mrs. Jordan ________ with sparkling eyes and a wide smile. I regained confidence and ________ a little taller in my chair.

From that day forward, my grades and speech ________ greatly. My popularity among my peers increased. It was all because the praise and encouragement Mrs Jordan gave me.