I drive a school bus, and there’s a sixth grader on my route who I just have to tell you about.
Last week, he mentioned that his elderly neighbor hadn’t left her house in weeks. I told him that sometimes it’s hard for older people to manage daily tasks, especially when they live alone. He nodded quietly, and I didn’t think much more of it.
Then on Tuesday, when I pulled up to his stop, he wasn’t there. I looked around and saw him shoveling his neighbor’s porch. Since I was early, I decided to wait. The other kids started asking why we weren’t leaving yet, and I said, “Anyone helping someone deserves a few extra minutes.”
What happened next melted my heart. The next day, seven of those kids showed up with blankets, food, and handmade cards for his elderly neighbor. After my route, I stopped by her house and delivered everything. She was overwhelmed with emotion.
Now, every morning, she stands on her porch to wave at the bus, and all the kids wave back, smiling.
I’m so proud of that young man for being the spark that started it all. He reminded all of us—kids and adults alike—that kindness is contagious.
Every day when I drive that bus, I feel a little more hopeful about the world, thanks to the extraordinary children I get to see grow up. ❤️