Through the Eyes of Love

One Sunday evening after a fireside, my four-year-old son’s Primary teacher came to me and asked, “Did I tell you what Brandon did a few Sundays ago?” Almost apologetically, I responded that I hoped he had not caused a problem. Sister Brown smiled, then described the experience to me.

A lovely little girl in Brandon’s class did not have complete hair growth on her head due to a serious burn she had received as a baby. Through the years, because of her disfigurement, this little girl had suffered considerable thoughtlessness and cruelty from other children. Consequently, she was bashful and had a difficult time attending her Primary class alone. But this particular Sunday she had finally mustered enough courage to come. She sat next to Brandon.

As she sat down, Brandon reached over and gently placed his hand on Carmen’s face. He held her cheek for a moment, exchanging an understanding smile with her. Sister Brown related that it was one of the most touching moments she had ever experienced—that one child could be so sympathetic to another’s need to be loved and accepted.

When I returned home that evening, I gathered my son in my arms. “Sister Brown told me about the time you were so kind to Carmen and put your hand on her cheek to help her feel better,” I said. Brandon smiled shyly. “Oh, I remember that time,” he said quietly.

“It makes me especially proud of you when you are kind to others. Carmen is a pretty girl, and very special to our Heavenly Father.”

“I know. But why don’t the other kids think that?” His look told me that he really did not understand.

“They don’t think that because her head looks different.”

Brandon turned to me and said, “But mom, I didn’t see her head.”

The very essence of the gospel is contained in his statement. How great are the lessons little ones teach! Donna White Lemon, Odessa, Texas

Photography by Jed A. Clark