We have instituted a new tradition in our family. Every night we go around the table at dinner and take a turn sharing the story of something kind that we've done for another person that day. Nate and Abbie have really taken to the idea and seem to spend a considerable bit of time during the day dreaming about acts of kindness. I am blown away by the thoughtful and generous acts that they have accomplished in the short time that we've been doing this. Here is Nate's story from today:
On arriving home from school, Nate's first words to me were, "I have something to tell at dinner, something nice I did!" I asked him to share early, but he wanted to wait until the set time at the dinner table. Finally after all of our food was served, blessed and tasted, Nate was too eager to wait any longer. He told us that at recess today, he saw a boy sitting alone by the door. Nate claimed that this boy looked lonely and sad. That's when Nate walked over to this child and said, "Do you want to play with me?" Tears immediately flooded my eyes, spilling over after I questioned Nate further only to find out that he had never seen this boy before, didn't know who he was and thought he might be a kindergartner.
I am speechless. Nate's giant heart has always been evident, but I was reminded today of just what a sweet and special soul he is. Nate's a 1st grader with oodles of friends, and yet he decided to help somebody today because the boy looked sad. He didn't have to do it, he could have gone on playing with his friends. But Nate took time out, consciously thinking of a kind act he could do for somebody else, and probably made that somebody's day. I have no more words, just a full heart and the feeling that I am the proudest mama in the world today.
Wow, what a sweet-heart!
ReplyDelete