On June 4, 2011, I had an encounter with a little girl that I will never forget. I remember the date vividly because it was the day I attended my nephew Carter’s graduation from The Charter School of Wilmington. The ceremony was held at the Grand Opera House. Family matriarchs, mom Morris and mom Cooper were in attendance. Carter’s parents Wayne and Cheryl, his brother Keith and Cousin Kevin rounded out his loud cheering section. Afterwards, we headed out of Delaware to celebrate Carter at a restaurant his parents had selected for the special occasion.

As we walked across the parking lot of the restaurant, I noticed a little girl in a princess or fairy or butterfly dress (something along those lines.) She was standing on the walkway trying to get the attention of people passing by. She looked to be around 6 years old and her mother stood protectively just a few feet away from her. She was unnoticed by some who walked past without giving her a glance. I was drawn to this bright slice of sunshine standing there in her fancy outfit. As we approached, I stopped to admired her beautiful dress. Making full eye contact the precious little one handed me something. I accepted and looked down at it. In my hand was a small piece of paper that she had made drawings on and wrapped in pink ribbon. I thanked her for the gift and complimented her on being such an amazing artist. I knew I was on the receiving end of something of value. I felt honored to have been chosen. Her mother proudly said it was something she created all by herself and insisted on giving to others.

I went on to enjoy the graduation celebration with family. The Cooper’s had outdone themselves. We were in Philadelphia at the ‘legendary’ Moshulu, a Restaurant in a ship that is the “world’s oldest and largest square rigged sailing vessel still afloat.” The ship has a long and interesting history. It was renamed Moshulu by Mrs. Woodrow Wilson to honor the Seneca Tribe. Moshulu means “One who Fears Nothing.” It is the “one and only restaurant venue on a Tall Ship today in the World.” The ship has been in several movies, one featuring Philadelphia’s favorite underdog, “Rocky.” Moshulu’s ambience, food, and service that day was excellent. (http://www.moshulu.com)

My brief encounter with the little girl outside of the Moshulu restaurant in the City of Brotherly Love, deeply affected me. At a very young age she exhibited an approach to life that was both fearless and unorthodox. Now, ten years later, her gift still hangs in my studio. It is a constant reminder that a small act can have a powerful and lasting impact. Recently I was admiring the package and for the first time I untied the ribbon and opened the paper. It is completely covered with the little girl’s intricate hand drawings. I had just received a gift within a gift. I often think about the little girl (now a teenager) and her mother. I wonder how they are and where they are. On June 4, 2011, at approximately 3:00PM, I saw a mom protectively and patiently encourage her little one to follow her heart and to express her own voice. I also witnessed a confident girl-child answer her call to a public ministry of caring and sharing. I am grateful to have met them. God Bless you baby girl.❤️

Amanda

Photos from private library; Thumbnail Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

The Gift

A New Day

25-Minutes