I was in the middle of a busy workday when I received an unexpected call from my daughter’s school, asking me to come in as soon as possible. The principal’s concerned tone made my heart race, and I left immediately, worried about what could have happened. When I arrived, I found my five-year-old daughter, Lily, sitting quietly with two school staff members nearby. She looked upset, and I could tell something had deeply affected her. The principal gently explained that Lily had been interacting with an unfamiliar adult outside the school, and they wanted to make sure everyone involved was safe and understood.
As the situation was explained, I learned that Lily had been giving part of her lunch each morning to an older man who waited near the school gates. At first, I was startled, unsure why she had kept this a secret. With tearful honesty, Lily told me she was afraid I would stop her, but she simply wanted to help someone she believed looked sad and alone. The school staff guided me outside, where a small group had gathered at a respectful distance. Sitting on the curb was an older man in worn clothing, looking emotional but peaceful. Scattered gently beside him were the small drawings and encouraging notes Lily had made and shared with him during the past few weeks.
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