Mr. Paylo

Dear NAI,

Your lives will be marked by many defining moments.  Here are a few of mine…

I will never forget the moment my wife, Livia, and I decided to commit the rest of our lives to one another.  It forever changed my life for the better. The premature birth of our son, James, and his one-month hospital stay quickly schooled us on the complex emotions of parenting.  His birth, along with those of his younger siblings Evelyn and Andrew forever changed our lives. My father was my role model and mentor; losing him to cancer taught me that no matter how hard you fight you are never fully in control.  Now approaching 40, I can begin to appreciate all these life-changing moments. I am fortunate that most of them have been positive experiences. All of these events have helped shape my values, beliefs and purpose for life.

I was fortunate enough to experience another one of these life-changing moments at NAI.  Five years ago, Josh Thomas captured the attention and imagination of both NAI students and staff with his vision for Project Water.  The goal was to raise enough money to build a water well in an African village for those who did not have access to the basic need of clean water.  It was astonishing to see his passion and urgency for people whom he never met. Along the way, Josh began to awaken a service mentality that had been dormant in me for years.  He reminded me that I am truly blessed; therefore, I should be a blessing to others. Project Water inspired me to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. More importantly, Josh reminded me the cost of not acting on this calling was far greater than any loss of my time, money or effort.  I humbly admit that an NAI student inspired me to live with a greater purpose.

Project Water has greatly exceeded Josh’s initial goals of bringing clean water to one African village.  The organization is already responsible for clean water access to several communities, schools and hospitals.  Thousands of less fortunate have experienced this life-changing event. Many students have also found a greater purpose in life by focusing on the needs of others.  

So NAI, when you set out to influence those around you, who knows, you might just change the life of one of your teachers too!

Sincerely,

Mr. Paylo