Mike Costello

I am Mike Costello. I am a Shareholder at Elliott Davis in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I am also an alumnus of the Bible program at Henry L. Barger Elementary School, class of 1967. At the time, Bible classes were offered in elementary schools, not just middle and high schools. The course was called “Bible Class.” I attended Bible Class between the 4th and 6th grades, and my teacher was Mrs. Gant. She made Bible Class so engaging, the stories so profound, and as a result, I have special memories of her impact on my life as a student.

Reading the Bible helped me in my other subjects. In our Bible Class, we had to take extensive notes, review them, and often memorize verses. Taking Bible taught me to take notes and commit important principles to memory. Taking Bible also helped me see that there is a great deal to be learned from the Bible that you don’t get anywhere else.

For me, the most surprising Bible story that we studied in class was what I call “the coat of many colors.” I dreamt about being in battles and circumstances that required resilience, courage, integrity and strength, just like my heroes did in what I called the “cowboy shows.” Joseph was dealt a number of setbacks, but he reflected those qualities I wanted to emulate.

But more than just stories, my Bible Class taught me important life lessons. The lessons I learned formed a great foundation that is continuously being built upon day-by-day. Bible Class gave me a perspective on life that is truly amazing. When faced with overwhelming challenges later in my life, I learned that the Bible can be a source of strength for you when you go through difficult times. The verses I have learned and relied on have uplifted me at times when I have been in difficult circumstances.