Proof of Life

I went to lunch today and sat myself near a TV which happened to be seated next to a K-9 officer and his two friends. As I ate, I had one eye watching Fox News and read MSNBC on my cell phone with the other. All the articles were your typical "The End of the World is Imminent" type material as it always is. So much sadness, despair, hatred and blame.

As I looked up from my burrito, I happened to notice a mother with two children in tow - one of them a boy with Down Syndrome. I watched as the boy looked with wonder and amazement at the K-9 officer as he ate his lunch. The officer, without hesitation, put down his lunch, turned away from his friends, and began talking to this innocent child. Not a second of frustration, not a sigh in his voice from his interrupted lunch, not an ounce doubt. The officer asked the boy about his day and what he was up to, as the child responded quietly, still hypnotized by this police officer.

After a few minutes, the mother thanked the officer and herded the kids out the door and our man in blue went back to having his lunch and talking with his friends.

With all of the doom and gloom that surrounds us - with all of the news stories about the world going to hell in a hand basket, about murders and racism and agression, never has it been so refreshing to witness a sweet and humbling act. It was as if some proof of life had bestowed upon me to reinforce the concept that there is still kindness and love in the human heart. Some sort of proof that there are people out there who will still take time for a completely selfless task and make a kid's day.

It's so easy to forget how much of an impact we have on other people. We forget that even the most simplest of tasks are the ones that have the most profound effect. In our busy lives, we sometimes think that a check can solve all of life's problems. It's frustrating to see people who think that because they donated to a charity they are free of any other form of humanity and kindness. Letting someone cut in line at a bank because they are frantic or have a deadline to meet; Helping a stranger who's bag of groceries went spilling across the parking lot. Simple, thoughtful acts that can bring a warm feeling to someone's heart with far more power than a donation could ever do.

So to the officer that took the time to be thoughtful, caring, and to give up a few minutes of his lunch for a child, I thank you. Thank you for proving that the world really is a beautiful place. Thank you for showing the world what it means to be human. I wish the news stations would spend more time reporting about people like you than those with black hearts. While you may not get the respect and admoration you deserve, let it be known that you are appreciated, adored, and honored.

Thank you.