A Little Help From Our Friends

A local farm, turned county park, offered a special event featuring the Civil War. Volunteers dressed as military personnel, farmers, craftsman, acted out battles and answered questions. It was family friendly and the kids were welcomed to try out each experience.

Ben was content at watching everything going on around us. Logan and Sean were mesmerized with the machine that removed corn kernels, and they literally spent most of their time getting the heads of corn from the shed and then either by hand or machine taking off the kernels. For some reason, unknown to me, this was an exciting activity for them.

Ben and I visited the cows nearby. A boy of about 10 or 12 came up to us and offered to help Ben feed the cows. The photos you see are of Ben and this boy. Notice how the boy gently uses a hand-over-hand approach to help Ben feed the cows.

The boy suggested that Ben may like to get the kernels off himself using the machine. This kid was so kind and thoughtful, I agreed.

While waiting on line, the boy ahead of us offered his corn for use with the machine. He thought Ben's might be too small. It turned out that this boy was the other boy's younger brother.

Ben experienced a bit more than the sand papery feel of a cow's tongue and the taste of corn kernels that day; he was treated with dignity and respect, friendship and kindness. These boys have a special gift. I am glad we met them and that they shared their day with Ben.

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