My 7 year-old Ethan and I just finished Wonder by R.J. Palacio last night. I mentioned the book in an earlier post when we had just started reading it. Having finished it, I can still say that I highly recommend it. Ethan would also give a raving review if he could. Towards the end, the school director is speaking at the graduation ceremony. He says:
“If every single person in this room made it a rule that wherever you are, whenever you can, you will try to act a little kinder than is necessary–the world really would be a better place. And if you do this, if you act just a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God.”
The day after we finished this most excellent book, I am moved to tears by an actual display of God’s face. Connor’s friend from preschool last year, Sydney, was recently diagnosed with Leukemia. She is his age and would have been his classmate again this year had we remained in Chicago. Since we heard of her diagnosis, we have been praying for her every night. Connor’s only words sometimes are, “Dear God, Please help Sydney feel better. Amen.”
Beautiful Sydney who has been in the hospital for weeks now.
Their preschool teacher, Ms. Brand, decided to shave her head today to show support for sweet Sydney. My boys have had the privilege of Ms. Brand’s teaching, and I have always been a big fan of hers for her skill, passion, and teaching philosophies. She reminded me again of the loving, supportive community at Prescott School whose teachers, students and parents truly care. She has given my boys an example of what it means to be kinder than is necessary.
You can read about Sydney’s story and how to help here.
As usual Leslie your blog either has me laughing hysterically, crying, or a little of both. Thank you for bringing attention to Sydney and sharing a good read.