A picture is worth a thousand words, and one photo in particular is making the rounds for being the best, kindest photo worth a thousand words in 2019.
An elementary school student in Texas, Kenlee Bellew-Shaw, was having a difficult day, but found help and a new friend in the school’s custodian, Esther McCool.
Kenlee is a fourth grader with autism as was having a very overwhelming moment one school day, but Esther noticed and offered some kind-hearted support.
Hollie Bellew-Shaw, Kenlee’s mom, shared the interaction on Facebook, writing, “Our custodian is the best, sweetest individual in the world . . . [Kenlee] wanted no part of being in the cafeteria this morning with all the noise so she laid down w/her blanket on the stage. When Ms. Esther saw her she came and laid next to her and patted her back.”
If you’re not familiar with Autism, according to Autism Speaks, it refers to a broad range of conditions on a spectrum that can create challenges with social skills, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as repetitive behaviors, sensory issues, and over stimulation which can interfere with day-to-day living.
Hollie also shared her daughter’s adoration towards Esther, and how the feeling is entirely mutual. She says, “She always greets my daughter with kind words and a hug which is so special to her.”
The school district is also sharing the story as a message and example that a “kind word, a hug, and a little compassion are all it takes to make a huge difference in a child’s life.”
(Fox News)
