A Tender Moment

Everyone likes to be acknowledged. In challenging situations, the positive words from a stranger can have special meaning. Here is a heart- warming story about a stranger offering emotional support and recognizing the efforts of a devoted parent. Indeed, this moment will have life-long implications for both individuals.

Tonight at a conference my eyes were drawn to a Father sitting next to us who had three young sons in his care. Probably ages 12, 9 & 7.
I watched on as I was amazed at the affection this Father showed for his sons.
No matter what they asked him, he gave each one his full attention. He kissed & hugged them continually.
I was wondering why I was so drawn to know his story. Where was Mum? Was he a single Dad? Did his wife pass away? I wasn’t sure but I’m eyes were transfixed on his love for them, and also the love the eldest son showed for his younger brothers.
When the conference finished I felt to tell him “he’s a great dad and that he needed to hear that”
As I walked past I leant down to his ear and said “I want you to know I was watching you with your boys, your a wonderful Father”
You should have seen his face light up. It was like he was shocked and then again so happy at that comment.
“Thank you” he said…
As I left the Auditorium I told my husband what I said and he also said he was going to say the same thing.
Ten minutes later my husband ran into him again where we were all picking up our kids.
He walked up to my husband and just asked how our night was.
I then approached their conversation and this man still intrigued me.
“What was his story we wondered?”
As my husband asked him where he was from and about the kids, he started to tell us how he brought his 5 kids (yes he also had 2 Girls) down from Brisbane for this 1 week conference. That he wanted more than anything to give his kids the joy of experiencing this and to have this time with them.
My ears starting to tune in, I was starting to feel I think I do have a single Dad here.
Then he drops the penny.
He hadn’t seen his kids in 3 months, they live further away from him, he’s in a messy court battle with his ex, he’s been told he’s not a good father and the story goes on.
I knew it. God works in mysterious ways doesn’t he. The amount of times I have had separated/divorced parents put in my path I can’t tell you.
I put my hand on his arm and said well I do understand as you are what I write and talk about.
With my eyes filling up I shared with him what I do (Voice4kids) and he was shocked. Even he said wow, this is a God moment.
I shared with him my heart (and yes I cried) as I told him what an amazing Dad I saw in him etc…
It was such a lovely moment that my husband and I were able to witness tonight.
I told him I feel to bless him with my 2 Books and he can’t wait to receive them.
*THESE ARE MOMENTS I LIVE FOR.
*THESE ARE THE MOMENTS I PRAY FOR.
*THIS IS WHY I DO WHAT I DO.