When I was a younger I often times had to work more than one job to make sure the bills were paid. This was no big deal because I had lots of energy and it most of the time I managed to have pretty like-able jobs.
At one time, I was working at a bakery/cafe on the weekends and at night. It was fun, the people were nice and everyone was happy when they were coming in for a treat of a delicious cup of coffee, cookie, pie or cake.
One day, while I was working, I nice young dad came in with his little boy. They were sweet, just as most of the customers were. Then I noticed it; this sweet boy that couldn't even have been two years old, had no arms or legs. He was happily held up in his dad's strong arms, without a care in the world.
I tried to my shield my eyes that were welling up and asked the man in a slight whisper if I could give his son a cookie. He said, "sure". He later told me that was the first chopcolate chip cookie his son ever had and he loved it! I felt good about bringing happiness to a sweet little boy that would undoubtedly have a tough life later. I couldn't help thinking about that.....for a very long time. Even now, I wonder how he is.
Some days later, I was with my son in the parking lot of the bakery and saw the man and his son. I said, "hello" and my son did what most four year olds probably would...He stared.
I was mortified and embarrassed. He kept saying, "mom, mom, mom" and trying to get my attention. I hurried him to the car. The last thing they needed was another kid staring and asking questions.
"Mom, mom, mom" he kept on. I got him in the car, hoping they hadn't heard and once we were in, with the doors closed, I proceeded to lecture him about staring about people who are different and how hard his life probably is and so on. After that, I FINALLY asked him what he wanted to tell me.
He said, in his sweetest voice, so selflessly, "Mom, I wanted to tell you that I felt bad for that boy and that I wish it was me with no arms and legs so that it wouldn't have to be him." I hugged him and showered him with kisses and we both cried.
That was 13 years ago and I cry every time I think of that day. My son was not only accepting but he was wanting to take away the hurt of "that boy" and in turn, taught me something about acceptance.
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This Blog was written for the Positive Attitude for the Weary Soul's Holiday Acceptance. There is a pretty good chance that I didn't hit the 500 word minimum but I really don't think I could have said anymore. I am ok if I was in violation of contest rules...:o)
Cristal Drake - Realtor (R)...At Your Service for all your Fullerton area real estate needs! RE/MAX North Orange County - 714-423-7525. All information in my blogs is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Copyright 2008 all rights reserved.
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