Each year when we begin talking about Noah's Kindness Project, we always talk with the kids about their thoughts and ideas. Most of the time they ask to do a race, to volunteer at Feed My Starving Children, and if they will get to see all the friends who usually join us. In past year's they've helped to suggest the kindness stones and the grocery store cart returns as well as the Crayon Initiative they helped to organize with their school.
Usually we spend a few nights talking about it and then as it gets closer they ask more about it. For the most part that is as involved as they like to be in deciding what we do. Except the other night, I was studying and Michael came over and said, "Hey Mom, can I ask you about a project I'd like for us to do for Noah's Kindness Project?" I stopped reading and looked up... "Sure what do you want to do?"
He pushed his phone in front of me and said, "Mom, can we help them?"
This is my friend Noah's family. This was the picture he showed me... He said, "Mom I feel so bad for them, can we donate to help them." I was glad Michael brought it to my attention and thought of Noah's Kindness Project to help them. I told him to forward it to me and I'd talk to dad but that we'd do something.
That night when Jarrett got home from work, I showed him what Michael had asked me about and he said of course we will donate. He too said, he was proud Michael brought it to us.
As we read the story about Keanu, my heart was taken back to those days with Noah. It's amazing how no matter how many days, months and years go by, when you hear the story of other families who have had similar experiences, your heart immediately connects with what they are going through. My heart also breaks for them that they had to say goodbye. It sounds like he was quite the fighter too and I am so sorry their family has to walk the path of heart-wrenching grief and loss.
We hope that their family feels the strength, love and support from others as they go through these very hard days. It was because of all the kindness, love and support we were given that we are able to celebrate Noah's Kindness Project today. I look back now five years later and while I still miss Noah everyday, I can see all the good that has come from it and I am thankful that he life had a purpose.
I also believe Heaven's playground must be pretty incredible. With the angel babies that we know who are there, I smile thinking of the friendships that must be made.
And one more note about this gift.... one of the qualities we value and hope to share with our children is giving to others in need and to think of others in how we can help.... I hope that through Noah's Kindness Project that our children see just how rewarding it is to gift to others without expecting anything in return.
Thanks Michael for bringing us this idea for kindness. We are always excited and open to hear ideas from others.... if you have an idea, please share with us!
and if you'd like to give to to Keanu's family you can visit their go fund me at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/gofundmecomfkeanu-strong
Until next time,
Angie
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