He gathered up his new acoustic guitar and his amplifier and took them into the living room.
It was there that he sat with his guitar teacher - to learn his lessons.
I'd walk by every so often and see him listening diligently and strumming on his strings. He'd look up seriously and ask questions. He'd write on his pad.
He was a good student.
When the lesson was over, he walked to the door to escort his teacher to his car.
I followed.
I stayed back a ways, near the front door, while he walked beside his teacher down the sidewalk.
After his teacher had loaded his own guitar and amplifier into his trunk, he turned to Little Billy and shook his hand, "Good job," he was saying - or something to that affect.
My son shook his head and smiled.
Then ...
Little Billy, sticking his hands in his jeans pockets, looked up at his teacher and said, "When I get my band - are you gonna come and see me?" he spoke so confidently.
His teacher assured him he would.
"You'd better," Little Billy began to walk away. He then looked over his shoulder, "Because I'll mention you - ya know?" he giggled. "You are the one who taught me."
His teacher laughed and then waved at me in the doorway.
I smiled.
I waved back.
I thought ...
This man has little idea of what has just happened.
What this small boy was offering.
But, I did.
I had taught him the lessons and was proud to hear his words.
- Show gratitude for your gifts.
- Give thanks to those that help you.
- Appreciate where you came from.
- Never leave anyone behind.
Good boy!
On the upside ... He has soooo got the most positive attitude and soooo going to make good things happen in his life. I just know it! I just hope that the love and kindness and generosity that he shows now ... follows him all the days of his life.