From left are Kappa Pi chapter members Naomi Bledsoe, Fay Blackwell, Katherine Bunce, Lindy Goode, Mary Stewart, and Laura Schmidt. The women are wearing head pieces to show that ‘words are important, but non-verbal body language is more imporant.’ Courtesy Photo Kappa Pi chapter’s first meeting of the year, at Lindy Goode’s home on Thursday, was a time of sharing experiences.

The chapter’s 32nd birthday was celebrated looking at scrapbooks and singing a birthday song written by a charter member.

Pat Tarry, the only surviving charter member, was honored with a photo album of pictures taken at meetings from 2003 to July 2010.

For her inspirational thought, Roselyn Parsons told of being contacted by an adult who had been raised by her grandmother as a foster child.

She never forgot the loving care and Christian upbringing she experienced there and wanted the grandchildren to know what a great influence and impact it had on her life.

This is the kind of influence we all want to have.

Members shared “unforgettable” experiences from the Delta Kappa Gamma Texas state convention in Waco this summer. They mentioned numerous inspiring and challenging keynote speakers.

Dr. Bonita Chamberlain talked about her 33 years in Afghanistan. Because of the Taliban, she had to dress as a man. She took tools to a refugee camp, taught them how to make jewelry with the local gems mined, and is selling that jewelry in America to help the Afghan people.

Members put on “heartshaped glasses” and “sparkly bits” head pieces to emphasize Amanda Gore’s challenge, “We need to see people with love in our hearts and make our body language fit our words.”

She said: “We don’t see; we perceive and judge. We need to use judgment, not make judgments.”

Words are important, but non-verbal body language is more important. Many other special experiences were shared about the luncheon, dinner, and workshops.

Members were shown the certificate awarded by The Delta Kappa Gamma International Society that will be given to The Chandler & Brownsboro Statesman for recognition of coverage of local chapter news.

Reports were shared about the Area I workshop in San Augustine last Saturday. Besides gaining new information at the meetings, the seven members attending enjoyed a brunch, workshops, and insightful speakers.

The Area I coordinator, Carol McMillan, shared interesting facts about the history of the town and how Sam Houston convalesced there after being injured at the battle of San Jacinto.

The keynote speaker recalled how every teacher she had helped her develop specific life skills and virtuous characteristics. She reminded us of the influence teachers have on their students.

Goode and Laura Schmidt provided punch, nuts, chocolates and birthday cake with ice cream. Conversation over refreshments drifted towards the past with members recalling S&H Green Stamps provided with groceries, how families shopped on double-stamp day, and how they were so proud of their Green Stamp purchases.

Members were told that Chandler Elementary School was looking forward to receiving the school supplies we always collect at our September meeting.

Kappa Pi chapter is part of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, an honorary professional organization for key women educators.