What a beautiful story! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with Juliet. It’s amazing how a gentle presence and kindness can make such a big difference. Sometimes, the smallest acts, like a quiet smile or simply sitting beside someone, can mean everything to that person.
You showed her patience and care; it’s clear you made Juliet feel seen and safe. You are making the world better, one child at a time.
I volunteered at a camp for abused and neglected children who were in the system; they would not be returning to their homes for whatever reason. The children that our camp wanted were the ones who were not allowed, did not qualify for, or were otherwise precluded from other camps. We wanted to show them a week of positive memories.
I saw young lives and adult lives changed that week, including my own. Every child had a birthday when at camp, whether or not it actually was their official birthday. Some of these children had NEVER had a birthday recognized or celebrated.
We had a camp grandma and grandpa. Placements were only two children assigned to one camp counselor, and a relief counselor was also assigned to the same two children, giving lots of personal time and attention to the children. We made them feel truly seen, heard, recognized, special, and that they mattered.
It breaks my heart thinking about how some kids are treated appallingly. I really appreciate your share, and it reminded me of my time volunteering at Royal Family Kids Camps. Thank you for inspiring us all to be a little kinder every day! 💛😊
RE: The Smile That Changed a Child's Day.😊