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Most of us remember the fixtures at our schools growing up. Sometimes it’s a teacher. Other times, it’s a janitor or cook. And in the case of this elementary school in Abington, Pennsylvania, it’s an 89-year-old crossing guard.
Shaquille O'Neal, a.k.a. the Big Diesel, a.k.a. Shaq, made a pledge last year. Every time he leaves the house, he would try to do something good.“I’m into making people happy. Whenever I leave the house, I just try to do a good deed,” he said.Recently, that good deed manifested as buying an engagement ring for a guy who was shopping for one and giving out 1,000 game consoles for Christmas. A couple of weeks ago, Shaq outdid himself yet again with another unbelievably generous gift.Shaq Took a Family of 11 to Dinner and Bought Them 2 New VehiclesHis good deed started off by taking a family with 9 kids out for dinner (got a big family? Read these family sayings). Feeding that many children and parents is undoubtedly going to cost a pretty penny, but that was just the beginning.Upon learning that the family was growing out of their 12-person van, he took them to a Mercedes dealership and bought them a custom 15-passenger van. "I have no words right now!!! Today Shaq @shaq blessed us like never before," said the Collins family on Instagram. "Like literally no words."Shaq Then Tipped a Waitress $1000 After He Learned About Her Car Trouble But that wasn't the end of it. Shaq also bought them all out for dinner at Rainforest Café and tipped the waitress $1,000 as she was experiencing car trouble. Then, he bought the father a brand new Ford truck because the A/C and heating weren't working in his old one."He also spent time encouraging us and loving on our children and speaking life into our family," the family wrote. "Somebody wake me up because I must be dreaming."Thank you @shaq times a million times!!! You have been such a blessing to us in so many ways.The Collins familyShaquille O’Neal Revealed His Parents Inspired Him to Give BackSpeaking with Gary Vaynerchuk on The Gary Vee Audio Experience podcast, Shaq said this urge to give to others came from his parents."You know for me, coming from where I come from, my father was a drill sergeant, my mother just was a hard-working woman. Didn't have a lot. But they taught me the value of giving back. They taught me the value of helping those in need," Shaq said.So a huge thank you to Shaq's parents, but a special thanks to the big man himself for showing us that kindness knows no bounds.More from Goalcast:Neighbors Call Police on Boys for Playing “Too Loudly” – Shaquille O’Neal Finds Out and Shows Up to Do ThisShaq Visits His Favorite Restaurant With an Unusual Request – Then, He Shocks the Watchful Owner With a SurpriseYoung Boy Sobs in the Middle of a Store – Little Did He Know Shaquille O’Neal Was About to Teach Him a Lesson
Graduation should be an exciting time in a student's career where they can celebrate their achievements with their family, teachers, and peers. You did all the hard work already, now it's time to celebrate your achievements. You'd think walking across the stage to get your diploma would be no big deal right? But for the people who struggle with stage fright? The hard work feels far from over.It's true when they say "our body keeps the score." Some of us can still remember that presentation we had to give in front of our whole class, where we choked. Now every time our boss calls on us at work? We may not know it, but that same fear comes up. We dread getting up in front of our co-workers and fumbling our words. We could be an expert rocket scientist, whose cutting edge research is changing the face of modern tech...and still our stomach is in knots at the thought of public speaking!Thankfully, one teacher at George Mason Elementary in Richmond, Virginia understood how big of an impact these seemingly small moments -- like walking across an award stage without tripping -- can make in our lives.When one of his students nearly missed out on his graduation, this selfless teacher came to the rescue with an act of kindness. How One Teacher Was at the Right Place at the Right TimeVohn Lewis, a substitute teacher known as 'Mr. Lewis' at George Mason Elementary, noticed an embarrassed fifth grader's frustration, when his broken shoe threatened his ability to cross the stage at graduation. The good news was, Mr. Lewis had a solution and he didn't hesitate to act.The student's parents and his guidance counsellor were at a crossroads after several failed arts and craft attempts at fixing the broken shoe. The sticky situation could have gotten a lot more desperate if Mr. Lewis hadn't walked in when he did.“I wasn’t thinking. I just moved with my heart," he said.In no time at all, Mr. Lewis was standing in his socks in the school hallway, swapping shoes with his student.Leading by Example Is the Best TeacherIn a now-private Facebook post, Lewis’ act of kindness went viral. The school took notice of his act of kindness, saying Lewis is often observed encouraging students from all grade levels and walks of life.“He demonstrates my mantra 'Children First!'” George Mason Elementary Principal, Rose Ferguson said, “He serves with a true heart of passion! We’re not surprised at his actions on yesterday and we’re proud to have him as part of the Mason Family!!”With his quick thinking, Mr. Lewis gave us all a lesson in leading with love, but the school wasn't out just yet! After Mr. Lewis handed over his shoes, he asked the young boy for a simple favor in return.“I told him that he had to make a promise to me because it was nothing for me to do something like that for him,” Lewis told the station. “But he has to keep in mind that one day he’s going to be in the position of Mr. Lewis and he has to do the same thing.”Kindness Is a Muscle, Exercise It!At the end of the day, change starts with us. It really is true when Gandhi said "Be the change you want to see in the world." Even though it's easy to tell ourselves we don't have the power to make an impact or we're not in the position to enact change, be careful to not let the feeling of powerlessness be an excuse for inaction. You don't have to be a teacher to set a good example for those around you. You don't need to be Nelson Mandela to change the world. Honestly, you don't even need to change the world. But smiling at your 17-year-old Starbucks barista when they mess up your coffee order, is better than nothing!“People will never forget how you make them feel. Character is so important in life, you should always be willing to give and always willing to be a blessing to someone else.”- George Mason Elementary Teacher, Vohn Lewis.We don't have control over where life takes us. So many of life's curveballs (big or small) are out of our hands. Most of the time, we aren't in control of how people or life itself act towards us -- but the way we react to situations is something we are in charge of. We may not always get it perfect, but the more we practice, the better chance we have at getting it right. If we start looking at "kindness" as a muscle we exercise, instead of a personality trait we (do or don't) have, then we'd all be standing the school hallway with our socks off...and that's a vision worth aspiring to.More from Goalcast:Inspired by Her Son’s Dying Wish, Woman Graduates From College in His Place With the Highest RankWoman Gives Birth to Baby Boy – Less Than 24 Hours Later, She Rushes to Graduate College With a PhDImmigrant Janitor Graduates From Nursing School – And Works at the Same Hospital He Used to Clean
In the heart of Wisconsin, in the midst of a snowy Sunday, a heartwarming tale unfolded. A devoted father from Milwaukee, Daniel Medina took to Facebook to share his "proud dad moment", when his sons insisted on pulling the car to a stop, to aid a man in a wheelchair by shoveling snow.The Reason Why Two Boys Asked Their Dad to Stop Driving the CarIn a heartfelt interview, Medina shared how the heartwarming experience unfolded. Medina's sons aged, 6 and 8, saw a man in a wheelchair trying his best to shovel snow from out of his driveway.Medina was cruising along the snow-covered streets, distracted by the weather conditions ahead, when his two sons told their dad to stop the car, after seeing a helpless stranger in need."I didn't even see the guy because I was concentrating on driving in the snow," Medina said. "My oldest, Daniel, said, 'Pull over, let's go help him.' So I said, 'OK, let's go.' We pulled up next to him, and Daniel asked if he had any extra shovels."Now that picture, and their story, has gone viral, with many people applauding the father for good parenting, and his children for their kind act. Sometimes Our Kids Remind Us of What’s ImportantThe man, a stranger until that moment, was armed with extra shovels, a gesture of preparedness and hope, and the bond of shared humanity unfolded in that snow-covered corner. For 45 minutes, the Medina boys worked together to help their neighbour in need. There is no telling how long the snow shovelling would have taken, had it not been for the Medina family's help. “He was grateful,” he said of the man they helped. “He kept telling us thanks and kind of supervised us, made sure we dug out the bus stop in the corner, and also his car because he had a doctor’s appointment the next day.”As it turns out, the Medina's even had a personal connection to their neighbor's personal struggle. Daniel Medina revealed, his boys' mother, who lives in New Mexico, also uses a wheelchair, and believes his son's deeper understanding of the stranger's struggles, prompted Daniel to ask his father to stop the car.How a Simple Act of Kindness Made a Profound ImpactLife can get busy and even the best parents can get caught up in their own world. One of the greatest gifts our kids can give us, is the gift of being present, and keeping our hearts open.Children can see things that sometimes their parents miss. Their childlike sense of wonder can ground them in the world and make them more attune to what the present situation needs.On this day, when Daniel Medina was busy keeping his eyes locked on the road, to make sure he was getting his family safely where they needed to go, his kids were present with their environment. Because of that, the whole family were able to help a neighbor in need, changing the course of everyone's day. Medina got to see his good parenting pay off and that's a gift in and of itself!Sometimes the greatest lessons in life are learned through actions, not words. Compassion, kindness, and empathy are values that radiate from the depths of the heart, and they have the power to transform lives and uplift spirits, especially during the coldest and most challenging of times.The Medina family's story, reminds us that a single act of kindness can light up the darkest days. Let's embrace empathy, nurture it in our children, and carry it forward into our communities. In the end, it is these acts of kindness that unite us, making the world a warmer and more beautiful place for everyone, one snowflake at a time. More from Goalcast:Rude Men Told Woman Who Uses a Wheelchair She ‘Wasn’t Worth Loving’ – Then This Man Got Down on One KneeWoman Needs $5,000 to Fix Her Broken Wheelchair – But Strangers Take Her by Surprise and Raise $22,000 InsteadJennifer Lawrence Sees a Fan in a Wheelchair Crying – So She Rushes off the Red Carpet to Give Her a Hug She’ll Never Forget
In a world that sometimes feels hurried and disconnected, there are moments that remind us of the profound impact simple acts of kindness can have. This story is one such reminder, a testament to the beauty of human connection.Our tale unfolds in a Hampton Inn in Pennsylvania, where Megan Griffin Haas and her son, Colin Haas, found themselves during a stopover. How a Hotel Employee and a Young Boy Formed a BondPhoto by Tima MiroshnichenkoColin, a young boy with autism, possesses a special love for card tricks. These aren't just any tricks; they're his way of navigating a world that can often feel overwhelming. Cards, in Colin's hands, become more than pieces of paper; they are instruments of focus and bridges to connect with others.As they checked into the hotel, little did they know that this would be the setting for a heartwarming story that would touch the hearts of many.Colin, with a heart full of innocence and curiosity, approached the front desk. Standing behind that desk was Kahlief Hill, a 39-year-old hotel clerk. Colin looked up at him, his eyes bright with excitement, and asked a simple question: "Would you like to see a card trick?"What Kahlief didn't know at that moment was the profound impact of his response. He didn't know that Colin had autism, and for Colin, card tricks were more than a hobby. They were his sanctuary, a way to quiet his mind and keep his hands engaged. Colin had lost his father a few years ago, leaving him with a void where a male figure and role model should be.“I always appreciate anybody that takes the time for anybody, but my son especially because (of) losing his dad and living with only me and his sister, he misses interacting with other males,” Megan told TODAY Parents.How a Stranger Became a Young Boy’s Role ModelIn her heartfelt post, Megan shared the depths of what Kahlief didn't know. He didn't know about Colin's autism or his passion for card tricks. He didn't know that Colin had been waiting for a "big brother" for over two years, living with just his mom and sister. And Kahlief didn't know that he was becoming that male figure Colin longed for.Despite not knowing any of this, Kahlief's response was a simple and genuine "yes." He allowed Colin to take center stage, performing his card tricks with unwavering patience and enthusiasm. It wasn't just about watching; Kahlief also shared some tricks of his own, creating a magical exchange of wonder and smiles.This beautiful connection didn't end that night. The following evening, when Colin and his family returned to the hotel after dinner, Kahlief was there, manning the front desk once more. And when he saw Colin enter the lobby, he extended the invitation once again: "Would you like to come and practice more card tricks?"Without hesitation, Colin rushed to his room, returning with his cards in hand. Kahlief, still unaware of the profound impact he was having on Colin, continued to be the warm and patient friend the young boy desperately needed.Their bond deepened further the next day when Kahlief was working yet another shift. This time, he made it clear to Colin that he was ready for more card tricks. For Colin, it was a simple offer. For Kahlief, it was a continuation of an act of kindness that would leave an indelible mark on Colin's heart.How One Simple Word Had a Positive Impact on a Young BoyMegan's words resonate with the power of these moments: "I love and live for feel-good moments like this."In a world often marked by its complexities and challenges, the story of Colin and Kahlief reminds us of the extraordinary impact of ordinary acts of kindness. Kahlief's willingness to engage with a young boy, not knowing his struggles or his story, reflects the best of humanity — a willingness to connect, to share, and to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem.It's a story that encourages us to look beyond the surface, to see the hearts beating beneath the exteriors, and to understand that sometimes, all it takes to make a profound impact is a simple "yes" and a willingness to share a moment of connection.Colin and Kahlief's story is a reminder that in a world that sometimes feels disconnected, there are moments of pure, heartfelt connection that transcend barriers and fill our hearts with hope and warmth.More from Goalcast:School Janitor Takes Boy With Autism Under His Wing – So His Mom Raises $35,000 in Response10-Year-Old Girl With Autism Bullied At School — Turns Out Her IQ Is Higher Than Einstein’s7-Year-Old Boy With Autism Is Terrified of Riding the School Bus – Drivers Have an Unexpected Response
*Featured image contains photo by Ketut SubiyantoA father's value to his daughter is often understated but not overrated. He's a protector, a confidant and plays a key role in how she'll love herself and others. However, according to the Washington Times, fifteen million U.S. children, or 1 in 3, live without a father.Dinner With Daddy’s Little GirlPhoto by Josh WillinkOne single dad who went by the username 'Takopoke' on Imgur, made sure he wouldn't be one of them. As per Maketosimplify, he was taking out his six-year-old girl to the Spaghetti Factory for a daddy-daughter date.Unbeknownst to them, they had plenty of company. That is until the waitress came by and slipped the dad a note. Hi there! Sorry to spy, but my husband and I saw you out with your little date and were so impressed with what a great dad you are.- Random note to fatherThe note continued to say, “From two adults who grew up without dads, it’s so important to have a male role model at a young age. Keep up the good work, Dad! Dinner is on us! :)”It turns out that everyone in the restaurant noticed the sweet, doting dad, including one couple who were inspired to reach out. Overwhelming ResponseThe father was beyond moved. "I wont lie, I teared up at the table. So, thank you, random strangers. Thank you," he posted on Imgur.The post garnered over 1 million views and hundreds of awestruck comments."What you are doing matters, please continue being an awesome dad to your little girl," wrote one. "This made me tear reading it, because my son’s father barely comes to see him anymore. It makes me happy to know men like you exist,” lamented another. Being a Good Father Sets the Example for AllYet another pointed out just how far a father's love goes. The way you treat her will determine what kind of man she looks for when she is older. You're doing a good job :) (I grew up w/o a dad)- Commenter on ImgurThe father's love and kindness not only helps build a confident, self-assured adult, it sets an example for a world that's watching. Maybe it's an expecting father wondering what to do. Maybe it's an estranged dad wondering where to start. Whoever it is, one look over at the father and daughter at the restaurant, and the recipe's clear: Be present, be loving and never, ever leave her side. More from Goalcast:Sanitation Workers Always Wave to Little Girl During Their Route – Until One Day Her Parents Give Them a Shocking NoteCarpenter Works on House Damaged by Fire – Finds a Hole in the Wall With a Note Written by a 14-Year-Old Inside ItMother of 7 Graduates College as Valedictorian After 10 Years – A Note From Her Daughter Helped Her Overcome Various Hurdles
School bus drivers are so much more than just drivers.They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of students during their daily commute to and from school. But more than that, they often develop a special bond with the kids they transport and their interactions can have a significant impact on their daily lives.No one knows this more than mom, Kelly Isenberg.How a School Bus Driver Changed a Little Boy’s LifeIsenberg's son, six-year-old Kameron, had been struggling with his transition into kindergarten at Cane Bay Elementary in Summerville, South Carolina for a while. "We found that he was having a lot of negative behavior issues that landed him in the principal's office several times a day almost every single day," Isenberg said.It wasn't just an "especially challenging" time for Kameron, it was challenging for his teachers, school administrators, and parents as well.After months of trying different reward systems and failing, Kameron's special education teacher, Stephanie Williams, finally offered him an incentive of his own choosing.Unlike other kids who wanted monetary rewards for good behavior, Kameron just wanted to see the school bus. "Kameron knocked on the [school bus] door and Mr. Charles came up to the front and opened the door, and [he was] excited to see him. I said, 'I know we're early [but can Kameron] get on the bus for a little bit and chat to you?' And that's all it took," Williams recalled in a video posted to the Berkeley County School District's Facebook page.Williams had found Kameron's currency and Kameron found a life-changing friend. Someone who was willing to give him one of the greatest gifts of all: his time."Ever since that day, there’s not been a problem,” Williams said. “He’s been fantastic and wonderful. Trying new things.”While being first on the bus and spending 5 minutes talking to the driver, Charles Frierson, may not seem like a lot, for Kameron, it means the world. One Man’s Act of Kindness Has Far-Reaching EffectsThanks to Mr. Charles, Kameron's behavior did a complete 180. It's a transformation that Williams, who has been teaching for over 20 years, has never witnessed before. "The way he glows when he sees Mr. Charles, it's something that's indescribable," Williams said. "This man has just made such a difference. Not only in my life, Kameron's life, but the life of every child in that classroom...and he doesn't even realize it."But Kameron's mom sure does. She is beyond grateful to the man who has had such a positive impact on her son's life. In an emotionally heartfelt letter to the school board, she wrote:"I have always believed angels come when you least expect them. This holds especially true in regard to Mr. Charles, the bus driver of school bus #220 of Berkeley County, SC."She went on to say, "I would like him to know how much we truly and absolutely appreciate him for who he is and what he has done for my son." She signed it, 'A forever grateful parent.'Hearing the letter brought Mr. Charles to tears. (Okay, fiiiiiiine, me too).Mr. Charles has been driving a school bus for four years but only started driving for the school district last year. Obviously, he's exactly where he's meant to be.A Friendship That Goes Round and RoundIsenberg also shares that her son's friendship has extended beyond the school bus. The two regularly have McDonalds and ice cream dates and Mr. Charles even attends Kameron’s baseball games on the weekends. Recently, Kameron graduated from Kindergarten and you can bet, Mr. Charles was there. As much as his "little buddy" loves him, Mr. Charles loves Kameron right back."His parents thank me but I thank God that He allowed me to be in Kameron's life," Mr. Charles shared, wiping away tears. "He's my buddy to the end."The unlikely duo has plans to continue getting together over the summer and will go back to their routine on the school bus in the Fall, where it all began.The Power of ConnectionSo often in life, we have no idea of the impact we have on other people. We go to work, go to school, and carry on with our daily routines, often unaware of the profound effects our actions can have on those around us.And yet, just taking five minutes a day to talk to one person, to make a connection, has the power to literally change a life. "It has always been said that it takes a village to raise a child but only one to make a difference. Mr. Charles has absolutely made that difference." Kelly IsenbergMore from Goalcast:Bus Driver Yanks Boy’s Backpack as He Is Getting off the Bus – Now She’s Hailed as a HeroBus Driver Has to Take an Alternate Route Because of Construction – What He Does for A Blind Passenger Is Recorded by a WitnessBus Driver Always Gives Extra Attention to 4-Year-Old – Then One Day, She Sees the Little Girl Waving From a Broken Window
In a world often consumed by personal troubles, stories that shine with the brilliance of compassion and resilience are like beacons of hope. And today, we share a story that encapsulates just that – a testament to the strength of the human heart.What One Young Woman Saw Her Mother DoPhoto by Matthias ZomerLife's journey is marked by twists and turns, and for this woman, the path took an unexpected course. After years of marriage and a shared child, the union shattered when her husband chose a different route. He walked away, abandoning her for his lover and leaving behind a family he once vowed to protect.Amid the ruins of her broken marriage, she held onto her dignity, refusing to let bitterness dictate her actions. Despite the agony she endured, she remained resolute in her commitment to love and kindness. And so, in October 2021, her daughter, Marion Turcios Corea, captured a poignant moment in a TikTok video that touched hearts around the world.In just 28 seconds, the video unveiled the soul-stirring tale. The woman, Corea's mother, showered tender care upon an elderly man. With each gesture, she demonstrated a depth of compassion that defied her own pain. She helped him settle onto a bed, placed a cap on his head, and gently patted his back. The emotions in the clip were palpable – a beacon of light illuminating the vast ocean of human kindness.The in-lay text Corea added to the video provided the missing pieces to this beautiful puzzle. "My mom and dad separated years ago. My dad chose another. He is my 98 year old grandfather (my dad's dad). My mom bathes him, changes him and takes care of him with a lot of love."In this moment of selflessness, the world saw a woman who transcended her own heartache. She tended to her former father-in-law, a man almost a century old, not with obligation, but with genuine care. Her gesture didn't stem from duty; it emanated from the wellspring of her humanity.How One Woman Proved the Importance of Being SelflessShe held no grudges against the past, no resentment towards those who had caused her pain. Instead, she led by example, teaching her daughter the value of empathy and respect. Her actions illuminated the truth that goodness can thrive even in the face of adversity.Corea's mother understood that growing old in a nursing home, distant from family, could be a lonely path. And so, she put aside her own sorrow, choosing instead to make the twilight years of her ex-father-in-law's life brighter. She saw beyond the wounds of the past and remembered that he was not just her ex-husband's father, but her daughter's grandfather too – an unbreakable bond that transcends circumstance.Her story serves as a reminder that kindness is a language that surpasses hurt, that empathy can be the salve to even the deepest wounds. Through her example, she teaches us that we can rise above pain, that compassion can bridge the gaps that suffering creates.In a world where being self-centred often reigns, her actions are a powerful testament that goodness is its own reward. This extraordinary woman's story continues to resonate, reminding us that love, kindness, and resilience can triumph over any adversity.More from Goalcast:Boy Has to Take Care of Little Sister After Mom Abandons Them – Years Later, Kelly Clarkson Has a Big Surprise in StoreParents Abandon Baby at Hospital After Being “Horrified” by His Face – Then One Woman Takes Him in as Her OwnPoor Grandmother Takes in Little Boy Who Was Abandoned at Birth – So He Sells Flowers on the Street to Buy Her a Home
Despite being one of the most legendary basketball players of all time, Shaquille O'Neal doesn't lose sight of the little things. In a heartwarming encounter, the 51-year-old O'Neal found himself in a store where he crossed paths with a young fan named Zion. When O'Neal noticed the boy in tears, his curiosity and compassion took over, and he approached to understand what was troubling him. Little did Zion know, he was about to receive a lesson in listening to parents that he would never forget.How Shaquille O’Neal Encouraged a Young Boy As Zion shared his story, O'Neal listened attentively, offering his support and guidance. Recognizing the importance of making amends, O'Neal encouraged Zion to apologize and embrace his dad with a heartfelt hug. This act of kindness alone would have left a lasting impression, but O'Neal's generosity didn't stop there.While Zion's family had initially planned on purchasing a coat for him, O'Neal went above and beyond by offering to buy the young fan a brand-new pair of shoes. Together, they embarked on a special shopping journey, with O'Neal assisting Zion in finding the perfect pair. Throughout the outing, Zion couldn't contain his excitement as he proudly shared videos of himself playing basketball, earning admiration and praise from the superstar himself. It was a day that Zion would cherish forever.In this world filled with news of negativity and division, stories like these remind us of the power of compassion and the positive impact one person can have on another. How Shaquille O’Neal Proved He’s the Best Role ModelShaquille O'Neal's genuine concern for a young fan's well-being and his willingness to go the extra mile left an indelible mark on Zion's heart. It serves as a beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness can make a world of difference in someone's life.In the end, it's not just about the gift of new shoes or the basketball superstar's presence; it's about the emotional connection, the empathy, and the lessons learned in that store aisle. Shaquille O'Neal, with his larger-than-life persona, exemplified the qualities of a true role model, demonstrating that even the smallest gestures of compassion can create ripples of joy and inspiration.As we navigate through our own lives, let us remember the power we hold to make a positive impact on those around us. Whether it's offering a listening ear, extending a helping hand, or showing empathy and understanding, we can all be a Shaq in someone's life, brightening their day and leaving an imprint of kindness that will be remembered for years to come.More Good Shaq News From Goalcast:12-Year-Old Unable to Leave the Hospital After Being Shot – So, Shaquille O’Neal Buys Him a New HouseShaquille O’Neal’s Father Made a Dying Wish – and Leaves His Family With a Priceless GiftShaq Noticed a Family of 11 Was Having Car Trouble – And Did Something Unbelievable
Can you remember the teachers in your life that really left an impact? Educators have the ability to truly influence a child's life, beyond just what they teach in the classroom. One administrator in a Philadelphia school system is now going viral after security footage capture his interactions with students -- and it will melt your heart. How One Teacher Treats His StudentsTeaching is often a thankless task, but people from all corners of the globe are now praising this man for his positivity, and the example he is setting. Arnold Ford is the vice principal, as well as a teacher, at Mastery Charter Mann Elementary in West Philadelphia. There, he is devoted to spreading joy to his students, never seeking praise or recognition for it.Thanks to a now-viral video shared to TikTok, however, he can be seen through the school's security cameras throughout the day, as students see him down a hall or across the room and run towards him. Unabashed, these children often even jump towards him in a huge hug, clearly eager to be around him. Watch the footage below. Clearly, Ford is a warm and beloved presence off camera -- these glimpses into his student-interactions simply evidence of the role he plays in their lives. The video shows various scenes of him walking the halls, or speaking idly to another teacher, when a student will spot him and gleefully sprint towards him.In these clips, he looks closer to a big brother to these students, in one instance even hoisting a young boy over his shoulder playfully. The students love it, and seem to truly gravitate towards Ford.“He gives a bear hug and it's the best. It’s like the best hug you could ask for,” Trinity Hall, a 6th grade student, said to a local news outlet. However, the exchange is a two way street. “In a way we got to give ourselves permission to be open to that kind of connection, that kind of love. Our kids deserve it and not only that we deserve it,” Ford said. “Sometimes it's not about them really. It's me who needs the hug.”He is clearly leaving a lasting impact on his students, as another 6th grader --Jordan Muhammed -- even admitted, “I have big dreams and he is one of my inspirations. The stuff he does I just want to do that.” How a Teacher Proves the Importance of Being a Good Role Model Online, people of all ages are reacting to the security footage, struck by this teacher's commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for his students. One user wrote in the comments: "The look of joy on those children faces as they run to that man tells all you need to know about the kind of man he is."While another added, "This is what we need in this world, good honorable and loving men out here. Keep fighting the good fight."He admits that the interactions seen on camera have been the norm for years, and actually started as a joke. When he went to pull the footage to rewatch one funny interaction, a pattern of positivity was unearthed.West Philadelphia, and its surrounding school zones, sadly make the news more often for violence, and this footage offers a refreshing new narrative. Ford clearly cares deeply about his students, and is not afraid to display it openly.“I believe any space we walk into we deserve to be received with love, so love is our curriculum,” Ford said.No doubt, Ford will be a role model that these children remember for the rest of their lives. He is truly a hero, never once seeking recognition for his behavior. We can all learn from the example he sets, raising up the people around us. More from Goalcast:Retiring Choir Teacher Gathers Everyone He Taught Over the Past 30 Years for One Final PerformanceStudents Learn Their Teacher Walks 5 Miles to School Each Day – So They Come Up With This Incredible Gift
