“Keep your eyes on those who walk according to the Jesus’ example." ~ Philippians 3:17
Birthdays hold a special place in children’s hearts.
They’re not just about getting older – they’re about celebrating with friends,
enjoying games, and making lasting memories.
As this would be
Torey’s first party with friends, his Mom wanted this one to be special - one
where he could feel like the center of the universe. So, she invited his entire
fourth-grade class, hoping to fill their home with laughter, fun, and of
course, cake and ice cream.
When the day finally
came, Torey was ecstatic. Asking him to wait tolerantly was like trying to tell
a raging forest fire not to burn. His brain was cluttered with no other
thoughts.
Torey had been
attending the same school for three years and he even played on the basketball
team. This was an opportunity to overcome his shyness and make some more friends.
But on the day when this
boy could declare himself a big kid, moving triumphantly into his first double-digit
age, not a single friend showed up. Not one!
Sadness drained from him
like an electric vehicle on a sub-zero day. Torey wanted to cry but couldn’t. He
coached himself instead: be brave, be friendly, try and remember that every letdown
can, itself, be a blessing. Tears finally came as if the soul could bleed an
ocean through the eyes.
Witnessing her son’s disappointment,
Torey’s Mom, too, felt helpless and heartbroken. She vented on Facebook,
reminding parents of the importance of celebrating these small yet significant
moments. “Please, if your kids get
invited to birthdays - take them."
And friends would
come, friends he never knew he had, even if it was three days later.
Her plea caught the
attention of four Arkansas State Troopers. Torey was at home after school when
the doorbell rang. He was shocked to find four state troopers at his door. Panic
was quickly replaced with excitement when he realized the officers were there
to celebrate his birthday.
His tenth birthday
wasn’t so bad after all. It would go down in his journal as the Best
birthday ever; memories he’d cherish for all the right reasons.
Their kindness wasn’t
just about gifts or cake. It showed the power of community support and the
impact it can have on a child’s life.
Young learners look up
to a variety of role models and it shapes how they behave, contribute to
relationships, and make decisions. Positive role models inspire children to
stay motivated, instill good behavior, influence life decisions, and strive to
achieve goals.
Jesus, we fall short far short of the
example you left for us. Help us to act more like You in loving serving others
– seeking to serve rather than to be served, to love rather than requiring love
from others, to even go the extra mile. Amen
