Never underestimate the power of a kind response. 

I witnessed this firsthand this week.

My son was having a rough morning at church on Sunday. So rough, in fact, that I got a text not even 10 minutes into the service.

(Parents of neurodiverse children, you can probably relate to how discouraging it is to get these types of calls. Because unfortunately, we get them A LOT! Our kids are amazing – gifted, crazy smart, kind, and generous. But sometimes, they also struggle in ways that neurotypical children don’t. And unfortunately, our world isn’t built to fit their unique needs. Typically, the world we live in asks our kids to try and fit into the mold, rather than adjusting the mold to fit them, which is incredibly frustrating…but that’s another post for another day!)

Back to the kindness I witnessed….

After getting the text from the team, I headed back to the children’s area and prepared myself emotionally.

Because I get calls often, I tend to battle feelings of shame…like I’m not a very good mom…like if only I did X better,  then he wouldn’t struggle like he does sometimes…like people are probably thinking I’m failing (which no one has ever given me reason to think. It’s just my own insecurities rising up.)

So as I walked, I took deep breathes, prayed, and prepared myself.

And that’s when it happened…an act of kindness and grace that was exactly what I needed. 

One of the volunteers sat with me as I talked with my son and then offered to spend the rest of the morning with him, one on one, so that I could attend the service.

Listen, I’m sure she was busy. I’m sure there were many other things she needed to do.

And yet, she chose kindness at a time when she could have chosen anything else.

I wanted to write up a quick post today to remind you (and myself) to choose kindness.

When possible, do the thing.

Be the kindness someone needs. 

Because you never know what might be going through their head…how they might be feeling…what they might be battling.

Look on with love and grace and kindness.

Better yet, and if the situation allows, offer to help.

Because on Sunday, I needed that kindness.

I needed that grace.

I needed to know that God was with me.

And I got those things through her.

I saw Jesus through her. I felt the love of Christ through her act of kindness.

Never underestimate the power of a kind response.