Sunday, January 31, 2010

The Heart of a Child...

Isaiah 11:6 - "The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them."



This is not a religious post, however, this passage from the Bible seems to be appropriate for the story I am about to share.

I had an email from my cousin Heather yesterday, sharing the fact that her granddaughter will be doing a fundraiser in late February, early March for the Canadian Cancer Society.  I was so deeply touched by this girl who has decided to have her hair cut off to raise money for cancer research.  Very touched indeed when you realize that this is a 7 year old girl with lovely long hair and she has made this decision all on her own.

The Cancer Society wanted to be sure that this was truly the child's decision so she and her mother went for an interview and all was worked out to everyone's satisfaction. They are happy to endorse this fundraiser which will be done at the school my very young cousin attends.

Where did the idea originate?  Well, her father suffered with testicular cancer in his early 20s and there was question as to whether or not he'd be able to father children.  He has and he and Heather's daughter have 2 beautiful little girls.  And I suspect that hearing about and seeing others offer to do this put the thought into the child's head, proving once again that children are very aware of and open to what they see, hear and are surrounded by. 

The joy and the hope that fills me is the evidence once again that cancer affects so many, at so many levels.  Cancer is the wolf and the lion and it lies down beside the innocent, taking them unawares.  And here is this child who is leading the way to show courage and spirit and wanting to do something to protect the innocent.

A blessing indeed.

*edited to add:  Deidra asked if there was a way to contribute to the fundraising.  If you are interested, please send me an email.  I will be happy to discuss this with anyone who is interested.

18 comments:

LuLu Kellogg said...

Brings tears to my eyes....what a wonderful young lady.

LuLu*~xoxo

Deidra said...

What a beautiful story, and you've chosen a wonderful verse to illustrate it. Is there a way we can give to her fundraiser?

Kim Mailhot said...

So many blessings...lovely to see the little ones leading the way...
Happy Sunday, Sherry My Friend !

The Bodhi Chicklet said...

Sometimes the symbolism can't help but leap off the page at us. Thanks for sharing this beautiful story and imagery. I know it's likely the time of year, but it has been a bit of a rough go this past week and I am grateful for all the inspiration I see.

stregata said...

What an inspiring story, Sherry. Seems that love, generosity and awareness run deep in your family!

Beth said...

Bless her courage, heart and soul.

Char said...

beautiful

Jakki said...

Out of the mouths (actions) of babes...

Barrie said...

Makes you wonder what amazing things this girl will achieve as an adult.

Lois said...

Just wonderful. A beautiful gesture.

Cora said...

Oh the joy of a precious child!
What a wonderful loving thing to do. She has a beautiful heart!
Very inspiring indeed.

Realliveman said...

The universe works in those who work for others. It's amazing that this little girl learned it at such a young age.

SE'LAH... said...

that is so touching...the children are the future and having such a socially conscious child is a gift.

xo

Chocolate Covered Daydreams said...

That is a perfect example of an unselfish yet caring heart. If only there were so many others that would follow your cousin's example. I would love to see pictures of her hair after it's been cut. I'm sure it's adorable. This was inspiring.

Carolyn said...

A wonderful inspiring story - for all of us ! ♥

Children are touched by it - like she has been even at such a young age - and many others no doubt
i`m sure her parents are proud of her ! I hope she raises alot of much needed funds for this cause !

Tery said...

There are truly wonderful people out there! Wonderful story!

suzyQ said...

what a lovely child!

Christina said...

she is a born leader.
xo