Keaton is a child in the church I attend. He’s got a helping heart. It’s part of him that requires no lesson, no prodding, no inducements. He’s a small boy, but he’ll take on any big task when he notices someone needs help. He notices if another kid is lonely or new or upset, so he sits by that kid in class or invites the kid to be his partner for a game or on the play yard. He notices if his adults need help around the building and either just does what needs doing, or if he is too small, he asks how he can help. He always wants to help prepare and serve meals for the homeless shelter.

I was cleaning up after a class I’d been teaching for a summer vacation program. The class required lots of props and gear – musical instruments, sheets for “tent” sides, all manner of jewelry, oils, spices and cushions, plus rocks from outdoors, fake trees, and heavy poles cemented in buckets. Other children were asked to help me return everything to its place. Some did it nicely, some whined about having to help, but Keaton wasn’t asked. He came first and just volunteered. Did I mention he is not a large boy? He volunteered to haul the trees, cement buckets, and rocks. Children can be selfish, and they are sometimes harshly truthful. They have to be taught to mind their manners and have compassion. Some learn easier than others. But some, like Keaton, come with an innate sense of kindness and helpfulness. What a gift!