She was in the third grade when I met her.
I was a police officer participating in Shop with a Cop.
After the event ended and my hubby and I drove home, I couldn't get this family out of my mind. We broke a few rules and got their contact info.
Fast forward to today, and this is the third year I had the honor of taking her to college.
Mike packed my car in such a way that I'm still in disbelief.
As we huffed and puffed, carrying each load a long distance from the parking lot to the fourth floor of her apartment building, we practiced gratitude.
At first, I complained there were no dolls, students to hold the door and help like last year.
And yet, with each trip, we chuckled as we declared we were grateful it wasn't raining, we had water, we had arrived earlier than most families, and we had a parking spot. The list goes on and on.
We went shopping to fill her refrigerator and cabinets and couldn't leave without lunch at Chick-Fil-a.
Hugs, I love yous, and goodbyes filled the apartment and then another round when she walked me out to my car.
On the ride to college, we chatted about how her life might have been different if I hadn't listened to the tug on my heart all those years ago.
Yesterday I received a text from her that said, "a club I'm going to be in on campus."
The Random Acts of Kindness Club.
It was at that moment I knew I had done my job. All the kindness my husband and I had shown, she and her family continue to carry on and show others that same kindness.
The next time the Holy Spirit tugs on your heart to help a stranger, take action. You never know how both of your lives will change.
Blessings,
Stephanie
Inspirational Speaker and Award-Winning Author of "The Giving Challenge: 40 Days to a More Generous Life" and “The Gratitude Challenge: 41 Days to a Happier, Healthier, & More Content Life”