Kill him with kindness....

well no not really but here's what happened. Lately John hasn't quite been himself. Though a bit sensitive (mostly in a good way), he's a happy go lucky kid. He has a great sense of humor, and he genuinely loves life, as he should. Recently, something has been bothering him. Though I think this time of year can be difficult on children, especially with all the excitement and anticipation, I think it's a bit more for him.

I know one of his classmates sometimes gives him a hard time. Not exactly in the bullying sense but more like trying to be one step a head of him. Perhaps he's vying to be, as the kids put it, cooler? In any event, I know John's bothered when he never picks John for his kick ball team or when John asks him to be his partner, he chooses someone else. I know kids do the darnedest things but sometimes it breaks my heart. Though he isn't actually doing anything to John physically, kids don't like to be left out. They want to feel good about themselves (and it doesn't end as kids!)
Well every so often, John will make a comment about this boy and it's never in a mean way. For example, he'll just ask why we think he doesn't pick him for his team or why he won't talk to him? While trying to remain on the positive side, I'll just try to reassure John and tell him that thought sometimes people aren't always inclusive or nice, he (John) should still be.

After school today, John emptied out his back-pack, as he does every day. Mixed in with one of his papers was a hand-written note. A note he wrote to the previously mentioned boy.

To: XXXX
From: John
Hope you have a great day and Merry Christmas!

then written on the bottom was

To:John
From:XXX
Thanks!

Seriously I don't like to brag. I would never want to sound obnoxious. However, I feel incredibly blessed especially when at a mere 7 and half years old, this kids is really getting it. He's well on his way in this life. He knows how to treat people kindly, and I know he'll go far. I am not bragging, but I am proud.