A Little Step With A Big Lesson

--by wayfarer, posted Aug 18, 2011

The shop was set a little back from it's neighbours. The little old lady who was leaving it leaned on a walking stick and used her other hand to support herself as she shuffled slowly along the plate-glass window and then along the wall of the neighbouring shop.

All of this to cross a step most of us would have covered in two strides.

My fifteen year old daughter Amy and I had been swimming in a nearby leisure centre and just happened to be passing. I stepped forward offering a few friendly words and a supporting hand.

She had a motability scooter (a little electric wheelchair) on the pavement - but first she had to get down that step!

I supported her as she came to the edge. She swung one foot forward, then hesitated. She shifted her weight, leaning on my arm and said, "I better put my bad leg down first."

Eventually, she got into her scooter and bade us a cheery goodbye. Then Amy looked at the step.

It was just over two inches high.

"You never know what might be a problem for some people, do you?" she said.

"Everybody has their own difficulties," I suggested. "We should just be grateful when we are in a position to help."

My daughter agreed and we walked on, enjoying what she later described online as, "A good wee day!"

I thought I was simply offering a helping hand but, thinking about Amy's reaction, maybe I did more. Perhaps it was "a little step" in her growing to be the woman who will understand that people's problems are often not what we expect and who will help others deal with those problems even after I'm gone.

I'd like to think so.

2208 Reads

Posted by wayfarer
Aug 18, 2011
Comments (8)

Readers Comments

MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: A helping hand is one not forgotten. The little things are what make a wonderful difference, as do you wayfarer. Amy learns from the best so we know kindness will continue on for years! :)

Bluebell wrote: I think it not only a lovely act of kindness but also keeping in mind that one day we may be the ones in need of a helping hand. You are giving Amy the seeds of kindness and that will with her forever. Have a Blessed Easter. Bluebell

Aurelia wrote:
Wayfarer, Amy is lucky to have a dad like you. Children WATCH examples better than they'd ever LISTEN to preaching. :) Thank YOU for always having such wonderful acts of kindness as examples for your children to Watch :) <3...
That lady needing help was a perfect teaching lesson....and it comes so naturally to you. ~Aurelia :0)

FairyBubbles wrote: Just beautiful Wayfarer - you are a wonderful example to your daughter and to me.
(((HUG)))

Bluxess wrote: Recently heard from a movie, a powerful statement: A beggar's character casually shares this with others ... 'People often believe in Dharma, righteousness. We beggars are planted on this planet to reinforce their beliefs' ... This is how I could relate to Amy's question and your answer in a way ... there is always an element of inter-connectedness. Thanks for sharing.

Neen27 wrote: Thank you for being a good example to the children (and adults!) in our world :)

hasifa wrote: You are teaching your daughter a very valuable lesson about character.

Lauren wrote: What a great teaching moment for your daughter. And, you! Thanks for sharing your story.

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