“Children are a blessing and a gift from the LORD." – Psalm 127:3
Rosie inhaled the crisp morning air and studied her surroundings – the bustle of rush hour traffic; golden sunbeams piercing autumn leaves; dogs pulling sleepy owners on their sunrise walks. Today was special – the start of another school year.
The trip up the hill seemed more difficult than usual for the young 83 year old. At her post, she took a moment to say her daily prayer for those with whose safety she was entrusted.
Erin was her first “customer.” She offered Rosie a warm hug when she reached the middle of the street. Many children followed, offering high-fives and friendly greetings. They respected Rosie – rarely did she have to raise her voice instructions.
By the time school started, Rosie was exhausted. Her husband had suggested she quit. She wondered if he might be right . . . maybe she was getting too old for this.
As she began her short walk home, she noticed a small child sitting on the sidewalk – crying! Rosie walked towards the child and parked herself on the concrete next to the girl. “I’m Rosie,” she began, “What’s your name?”
“Allie.”
“Allie, don’t you want to cross the street and go to school?” The girl shook her head and stared at the ground. “Are you nervous about starting school? It’s a pretty cool place.”
“No,” she replied, “But I can’t cross that street.”
“Of course you can’t! Not by yourself anyway. That’s what I’m here for!” Rosie gave her a wide toothy grin. “So let’s cross the street together, OK?”
Expecting that she’d solved the crisis, Rosie was surprised to see more tears in Allie’s eyes. “Mommy told me to hold her hand when I cross the street, but she went to heaven. I can’t hold her hand anymore.”
Now Rosie’s eyes reddened. “Your mommy was pretty smart. I’ll bet she’s watching you proudly from heaven right now. “Do you believe in Jesus, Allie?”
Allie nodded.
“Your Mommy asked Jesus to send me to hold your hand so we could walk to school together. I’ll hold your hand every day when you cross this street if you come back and tell me more about your Mommy. Deal?”
Allie looked up and studied the kindness in Rosie’s face. She nodded, “I’m ready now.”
Rosie stopped the traffic and helped Allie cross. Rosie was now certain of two things: for the 22nd year she would keep her orange vest and Jesus had worked His magic again.
Holy Father, thank you for children! We accept with serenity, their worries, fears, and labors. Give us the wisdom to mentor them, patience to teach them, and vigilance to lead them by our Christ-like example. Amen
