We are often unaware of how our words and actions impact others. I want to share a story about our two-year-old granddaughter.
Our neighbors across the road planted a glorious field of sunflowers for their son’s wedding, which was held in their yard last summer. Months after the plants had served their purpose, several of the dried plants and their heads lay on the ground. Our granddaughter, along with my farmer husband and I, were taking a walk and stopped to talk to the neighbors who were working in their yard.
The neighbor handed Hadlee a dried sunflower head. The seeds were gone, but Hadlee was fascinated with the shape and feel of the dried sunflower. She proudly carried it home to show her parents, who were over half a mile away.
My daughter said Hadlee talked about the neighbor giving her that dried sunflower head for days and how it made a sweet impression on her.
A few days ago, Hadlee was at our house. She went into the office and wanted me to come with her. On the wall is a picture of a baby lamb standing in the mud, and Jesus is running towards the lamb. She and I have discussed this picture several times.
With her tiny finger, Hadlee pointed towards the picture and said baby lamb. Nodding my head, I pointed towards Jesus and asked, “Who is this?”
That sweet baby looked up at me with her big blue eyes and proudly said, “Neighbor.” My heart melted, and all I could do was agree. Yes, Hadlee, the neighbor shared the light of Jesus with you.
Be kind and love everyone, regardless of their age. You may never know the results your simple acts of kindness can have.
Who can you help and be kind to this week?
Blessings to you,
Debbie