A TOTAL ACT OF KINDNESS..

My first memories of school were like a nightmare. Along with my grandmother sending me off in small dresses, then getting run over in the hall to catch my bus home. I remember the first show of complete love and affection. It came from one of the janitors at this Lebanon Junior High School. During one of those first days, I had a total breakdown. I took a huge temper tantrum right in front of the lockers that lined the halls. I began to cry and sob uncontrollably. I was only 5 years old starting first grade. I really don’t think I was ready to leave the safety of my home. Thus, the feeling of my Mom wanting to get rid of me to have this new baby. I don’t recall exactly when, wether it was the first day of school, or later that week. But, I do remember the feeling of total abandonment. My Mom gone off to have a baby, I didn’t want. My grandmother stepping in and taking over frustrated, not knowing what to do. My father busy working and my teacher, Mrs. Bush. She was a nasty lady, mean and unconcerned about anyone. Lying on the floor, sobbing and crying having a screaming fit of passion, feeling abandoned and alone. A janitor came and kneeled down beside me. He put his arm around me and had pity on my. I still remember the compassion and love in his voice, some 50 years later. He said, " You must be very sad, I know your are sad, or you wouldn’t be crying like this. How about if you get up, go into school today and tomorrow I bring you a brand new book of paper dolls. How about that?" For a five year old to remember so vividly this act of kindness, from a man I didn’t even know! I agreed, he helped me get up and brushed my hair back. I got up and went into my class. The next day, he did just as he said. He brought in a brand new book of paper dolls. I know I will see that man in heaven some day, for his love and compassion to a five year old. Because it was so great!..