In a perfect world, every child would be born into a loving family, but this is not always the case. Anyone who chooses to adopt a child is truly making a positive difference in the world and has the chance to shift the trajectory of a kid’s life – and their own life – for the better.
Charity and Brenton Robinson found this out firsthand. A few years ago, not long after they adopted a little boy named Lincoln, they decided to spend a night at the rodeo with the family. Little did they know, everything was about to change.
For reasons no one can know, the little boy was drawn to a stranger with a big cowboy hat and an easy-going grin. He walked right up to the man – later identified as Jason Taylor – and started excitedly talking about the sights and sounds of the rodeo, much to his parents’ surprise.
Lincoln isn’t your average kid. He’d been through a lot in his short life that left him scared to death of most people. His mom was so overcome with gratitude and joy that she snapped this picture and made a post to Facebook.
The Facebook message reads:
“Dear stranger next to us at the rodeo,
When my son came up to you and grabbed your arm, you didn’t know he used to be terrified of people.
When he talked to you about the bulls, you didn’t know he was diagnosed with a language disorder.
When he jumped in your lap and laughed as you tickled him, you didn’t know he had a sensory processing disorder.
You also didn’t know as his mother, I sat in my seat, with tears running down my face, sneaking this photo. When we adopted him a few short months ago, we didn’t know how long it would take for him to laugh, play and engage others like this. You didn’t know any of this, but you took time to connect with a child who has had to fight to learn to connect. My heart is full. Thank you.“
Jason’s daughters spotted the post the next day and helped their dad get in touch with the Robinson family. Turns out the old cowboy was a preacher and was doing what he felt was right.
The Robinsons and Taylors became fast friends. As for Lincoln, he got one step closer to recovering the childhood he missed.
The smallest gesture can change a life. Share to brighten someone’s day today!
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