A BOY IN MY BACKYARD WHO CHANGED EVERYTHING

My heart went out to him, a boy no older than seven. I led him inside and offered water. “Where do you live, Tommy?” I asked. He shook his head. “My uncle left me on the street.”

“Tommy, we’ll figure this out,” I reassured him. “First, let’s get you cleaned up and fed.”

After a meal, Tommy seemed more at ease. I called a friend from social services. Tommy mentioned his mother’s name, Lisa.

“Laura, we need to get Tommy to a safe place tonight,” my friend said. “I’ll arrange foster care and search for his family.”

Days later, they located his mother, Lisa, who was ready to bring him home. Their reunion was emotional. Months passed, and I received updates. Tommy was thriving, and Lisa was rebuilding their lives.

One afternoon, Lisa invited me to Tommy’s birthday. I arrived to joy and gratitude. It was a day of laughter and fulfillment.