A Child and a Flower
Previous StoryNext StoryThe little town where we lived outside of Augusta, Georgia, was very small. There was an elementary school, a flower shop, a bank, a minute market and a family-owned restaurant, and, of course, many churches. We knew just about everyone in the community, and everyone knew our youngest son.
He was a friendly child, with whitish, blonde hair, always zipping around the neighborhood on his red bicycle. Every morning during the summer, he would get dressed, and off he would go for his morning ride. In his travels, he often stopped and talked with our neighbors.
One morning after he had been on his bike for a while, he came in and asked for a dollar to go to the flower shop, which was about a block away from our house. He often went with me when I would stop and buy some seasonal flowers for the table.
We could buy a bouquet for only a dollar. I figured he would buy some for me, so I waited for him to come home with his hand full of daisies-my favorites.
After a little while, I saw him peddling towards the house, but instead of stopping, he dashed right on by without even glancing my way. In his hand was a beautiful Shasta daisy.
I wondered where he was going, and I watched as he parked his bicycle in our neighbor's yard down the street. We didn't know them very well. They were an older couple who kept pretty much to themselves.
When he came home, he told me he had taken the flower to our neighbor. “That was sweet,” I told him, “but what made you think of that?” “I heard someone say their son had died,” he said, “so I thought I would take a flower to them.”
Later, I talked with the neighbors, and they told me that it was their son's birthday. He had died the year before. It was a painful day for them. They were sitting in their living room, grieving, when they heard a little knock. They opened the door, and Jay was standing there, holding the beautiful daisy in his hand. He said, “I'm sorry that your son died.” The neighbor told us it was the most encouraging thing they had felt in a while. They said it felt like their son comforting them.
I was fascinated that my 6-year-old son would think of something so important on his own. But it isn't surprising that children can often demonstrate to us the kindest ways to comfort others. When people are hurting, we often think we have to offer them advice on how to get on with their lives or do something big to let them know we care. But a child with a flower and a caring heart is sometimes all they need.
What a beautiful gesture! Love his sweet heart! Thank you for sharing, Deana!
Thank you, LoriDeana
What a beautiful story and your son,s kind gesture is a reflection of his role models. So i think you can take some of the credit for having raised a sensitive child.
Thank you, Anita. He is still that kind of son at age 40. Always thank you for reading and commenting.Deana
This is the sweetest story! It brought tears to my eyes.
Michelle, thank you always for reading and commenting.Deana
Always the sweetest thoughts!
Thank you, Janet, for letting me be a part of your group.Deana
Omg brought tears to my eyes! There are so many caring kids out there. Beautiful story !
Thank you, Maria. You are right. Kids hearts are so tender and caring.Deana
Oh my heart. Nothing in the world can be worse than losing a child. How wonderful that your son, at that age remembered and took the time to show that couple he thought of them. I've read many of your stories Deana and what always shines through is the love and care your whole family shows to others. It's a beautiful legacy you and your hubby both passed on
Thank you, Michelle, for always responding with such feeling and encouragement.Deana
Always enjoy this Monday morning read!
Sara, thank you for reading on Mondays:)Deana
A beautiful story Deana! Glad you shared.
Thank you, Ann, for reading and commenting on my story, dear friend.Deana