Connections

Recently two comedians noticed a lady paying for the gas for her car with pennies.  They went up to the lady and gave her a handful of money to help out.  She was overcome with emotion at their gesture.  Her husband had died the week before and she was just trying to survive.  Along with the offering of money, the men gave her the gift of hope and knowing even strangers care.

A day care facility in England is having success reaching dementia patients through experiences with toddlers.  According to the BBC, “Beyond those difficulties, the person’s got a lifetime of skills, and knowledge, and experience, and expertise.”  By bringing in young children they are hoping to make connections with the residents, “to achieve good moments.”  The person may not remember what happened that day, but they do relate it to a positive experience.  As the toddlers play doctor, blow bubbles, and sing with the people, the research team noticed that after three days their patients were “happier, more active, and found lots in common with the kids, especially a love of music.”  The workers are offering amazing opportunities that have a positive impact for the people in the day care facility as well as the children. 

Sara Collins teaches a Pre-K class at Greensboro Elementary School.  One of the jobs on the class chart in her room is to be the greeter for the day.  As the students come in each morning they decide how they want the greeter to welcome them.  Each child makes a choice and then points to a picture of either a hug, handshake, fist bump, or smile.  The greeter then responds with that action.  Collins says that starting off the morning this way helps the students to feel loved, safe, and it is also building communication skills.   “We’re trying to create a school family.  We’re building relationships between the teachers and the children and the children and the children.  They’re more loving and kind to each other when they start the day off with that kind of connection.  Instead of throwing backpacks around they make eye contact with each other.”  Collins concluded her interview by wondering, “If 4-year-olds can get along, why can’t adults?”  Sara Collins is investing in her students in a way that will hopefully teach and encourage them to make a positive difference and contribution to society in the years to come as they greet people and look for ways to communicate with them.                                   

Because people took the time to observe the people around them, make a connection, assess the situation, and respond in positive and helpful ways, others were blessed, uplifted, encouraged, and offered the hope of a brighter day.  Especially during this holiday season, may we be willing to do the same.

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 13:35

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:32

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

I Corinthians 13:4

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23

Therefore, as chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Colossians 3:12