I have always considered it a great blessing that my occupation and my vocation have coincided; that my professional life has been my calling.  I have found inspiration in my concern for the welfare of children.  A former mentor of mine helped me understand the difference between talents and gifts when he said that talents are the things we can teach others, but gifts are uniquely for us to do.  This month's e-news is a story about service and gratitude.  It is a story, an epilogue of sorts, which speaks to the difference so many of you have made in the life of one family.  As many of you know, I serve on several community boards, including The Columbian's Advisory Board.  It is through this connection that I met Den Fusso, a parent of three recent graduates from Skyview High School—Nicko (2003), Logan (2006), and Renata (2008), who are now successful in college and careers.  Last spring, Den expressed her deep gratitude for the quality of education her children received in Vancouver Public Schools.  Her children's teachers had been a positive influence.  Without their dedication, wisdom, respect and encouragement, her children would not be in such successful places in their lives today.  Since our meeting was about to begin, I invited Den to send me an e-mail with some of the names and contributions made by our staff.  I received that message this month.  She was apologetic about the delay, but in our profession, we are accustomed to being patient, knowing that the fruits of our labor can be years or even decades away.  Den asked me to share her letter, so I am.  She writes, “When I've been concerned, I've been vocal.  I think it's important to be even more vocal when I'm pleased.”