“Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” –Isaiah 41:10
Bo Paske and Travis Rudolph have become household names this week thanks to a picture taken by Bo’s mom. They have been featured in newspapers, TV news shows and multiple Internet articles all because a simple act of kindness in school cafeteria.
Bo is a middle school student in Tallahassee, Florida. Bo is an autistic student and does not easily fit in with other students. He is often found sitting alone during lunch, that is until the leading receiver of the Florida State Seminoles, Travis Rudolph, joined him at the lunch table. Travis and several of his teammates were at the Montford Middle School when Travis spotted Bo eating alone. This football player, who is used to playing for thousands of fans, took some time to sit with this one special kid.
While Bo and Travis were enjoying their lunch together a staff person took a picture of the two and posted it to social media. It did not take long for Bo’s mom to see. She wrote on Facebook,
“I’m not sure what exactly made this incredibly kind man share a lunch table with my son, but I’m happy to say that it will not soon be forgotten. This is one day I didn’t have to worry if my sweet boy ate lunch alone, because he sat across from someone who is a hero in many eyes. Travis Rudolph thank you so much, you made this momma exceedingly happy, and have made us fans for life!”
Travis Rudolph has a great future in football. No doubt he will continue to make a significant impact on the field. Very few people have the ability to play the game of football like Travis does, but each of us have the ability to effect the life of another person. Travis demonstrated tremendous compassion when he saw this young man alone and joined him for lunch. His actions became a positive influence on all of the students and staff of that middle school. He and Bo became an encouragement to the entire country. The smallest act of kindness can change a life.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
