It was one of those experiences that will be seared in my memory forever. I could see him standing at the door, face pressed to the glass watching for me. He met me at the door with these beautiful, bright brown eyes, full of eager anticipation for what was to come. At seven years old, he had never had his own bed, and one was about to be delivered just for him. Excited is an understatement - he was bouncing with joy!
He quickly took me by the hand to an empty room he proudly proclaimed was his. "Here is where it goes." We brought in the bed and got it set up. As his family and I were discussing their situation, ways we could support, services in the community that could be a resource to them to get on their feet, he just sat quietly on the bed.
Before I left, I went back to his room where he still sat. I offered a high five and said, "I hope you sleep better than ever tonight!"
His answer was quick and sweet and innocent like only a child could answer, "Oh, I WILL! THANK YOU!" His eyes did the real talking as they welled with happy tears. He sniffed them away and laid down on his new treasured bed, running his hand back and forth on the uncovered mattress.
As I left, I knew that the mattress we left for him was not the biggest win of the night. It was that this beautiful little 7-year-old boy would go to bed knowing that his school and his community love him.
This experience was powerful for me because I have my own little bouncy 7 year old boy...but he has never known a night without his own bed. My mama heart swelled with thankfulness that this community allows us to take care of each and every one of our kids. Every little boy and girl - every big boy and girl is precious, and because of the sacrifices of so many, we are able to make sure they know it.
As you gather around your tables with loved ones tomorrow to give thanks, know that we are giving thanks for YOU. Your generosity is truly life changing for so many children. Please don't ever forget!
Together for kids,
Melissa Winston, MSMFT, PLMFT
BF Joplin Coordinator
