A Simple Act of Kindness
It started like any other Tuesday. My 8-year-old son, Ben, and I were walking home from the store. I carried grocery bags while Ben chatted away beside me.
Ben’s Unexpected Gesture
As we passed a police officer, Ben tugged my sleeve. “Can I say something to him?” he asked. I nodded, expecting a question about the badge. Instead, Ben approached the officer and asked, “Excuse me, sir… can I pray for you?”
A Heartfelt Prayer
The officer looked surprised but knelt down. Ben placed his hand on the officer’s shoulder and said, “I pray you stay safe, don’t have to hurt anyone, and remember you’re a good person.” My heart tightened as I realized how deeply Ben had been affected by a recent news story I tried to shield him from.
Ben’s Thoughtful Response
Later, I asked Ben why he had done it. He replied, “I thought maybe he needed someone to care. People forget police officers can be scared too.”
A Grateful Officer
Days later, at the store, the same officer tapped my shoulder. He thanked Ben again, explaining that he had just come from a tough call. His words, he said, meant more than he could express.
Connection Through Kindness
When the block party came, families filled the street, and children played joyfully. I was sitting alone when I saw the officer again—this time in plain clothes and carrying a dish. He smiled, walking over as a friend, not just a uniform.
The Power of Small Acts
Ben’s simple act of kindness had sparked something larger: connection, healing, and a moment none of us would ever forget.
