Throughout time there have been individuals that have represented the best of what humans can be. In any field, those who were caring, compassionate, leaders have always been seen in a special light. The twentieth century has seen several individuals who match this description. However, it seems that one more than any other stands out as the most influential and special person of our time: Mother Teresa.

Born in Skopje, Macedonia in 1910, Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu (Mother Teresa) was the third child of the Bojaxhiu’s, a deeply devout Catholic couple.  Throughout her childhood, Agnes was involved in the Catholic youth organization Daughter of Mary.  She developed a keen interest in the works of missionaries and saints, and at the age of eighteen joins the Order of the Sisters of Our Lady of Loreto, attracted by their mission work in India. After working with this group and professing her vows, Sister Teresa was inspired by God to serve the poor. In 1950, Mother Teresa formed the Order of Missionaries of Charity in India and receives the praise of the country.

After Pope Paul VI praises the order in 1965, more homes and orders are opened around the world. Throughout the 1970’s,
Mother Teresa received much support and recognition in the West, and in 1979 she received the Nobel Peace Prize. And through the 80’s and 90’s until her death, Mother Teresa worked diligently, sometimes to the detriment of her health, to aid those who suffered in the world. Her order’s homes were all over the world in countries that formerly disallowed them. Her works and the works of her order touched thousands of people.

Mother Teresa’s preachings were of peace and love and prayer. She could see no reason for suffering or despair. From her childhood, her life’s work was to help others. She was compassionate to a level that nobody else could know. She has been described as a "living saint" and is known around the world as a great missionary. Her death only brought her work to a greater level. By looking at her impact on the poor and suffering of the world, many people have changed their lives and their thinking.

Mother Teresa was not simply a religious figure and promoter. Her religion was at the center of her life and her work.  However, the lessons to be learned from this amazing woman surpass any difference in religious belief. Her work and lessons are that of all of humanity. To be kind, to love, and to be compassionate. Mother Teresa effected the world like no other person in recent history. To imagine a history without her is to see a world less humane and compassionate. She truly was one of the most influential people in history, religious or any other.