A SIMPLE ACT OF KINDNESS

I never thought a simple act of kindness would have such an amazing impact. It really showed me how much God can use any situation or anybody for His glory.

I’ve been a UPS driver in Vermont for 29 years, and really gotten to know a lot of the people on my route. Especially during the pandemic where we’ve been making so many more deliveries. I love my customers and try to show Jesus’ love to them any chance I get.

That’s what I did with Max. He’s a 14-year-old boy with autism who rarely speaks or smiles. I try to say hello and take a few minutes to talk to Max whenever I make a delivery to his mom, Wendy. So, Max and I started to develop a real bond. He’d get excited when I’d drop off a package. Max’s room is at the front of their house and so he can hear the truck coming up the road. His mom usually greets me at the door and Max is not too far behind.

With Halloween approaching, Wendy shared with me how Max wanted to be a UPS driver. I was so touched when she said she’d try to make him a uniform like mine.

For some time, I had been praying that the Lord use me as His loving instrument. And in my mind, that was treating everyone with a smile and compassion since we are all His children.

When Wendy told me about Max’s UPS uniform, I could feel the Holy Spirit pushing me to do more for Max. So I thought I’d get him some UPS swag. I boxed up some UPS gloves, a couple hats, a vest and put in a toy UPS truck. I came to the door that day and gave Max the box. After he opened it, a smile as big as my truck came on his face and he gave me a huge hug.

That wonderful smile and warm hug from Max will stay with me forever. After I left, I felt on top of the world. It was one of the biggest blessings I think I’ve ever received.

Somehow, a local reporter heard about what I did, and told that story. I’m not an Internet guy, but from what I understand, the story went viral. Before I knew it, media people from all over the country were contacting me. I was amazed at what was happening and in awe of what God did with my simple act.

Hopefully, people can hear this story and realize that just being nice to people can really make a difference in someone’s life. You know, all I did was listen and participate in what the Holy Spirit was prodding me to do.