I love all things Star Wars. I love the amazing stories of a galaxy, far, far away. When I was a kid, my friends and I spent hours playing with our Star Wars toys. I cannot begin to count the amount of lightsaber battles I was a part of in my own backyard. I also love Chick-fil-A. It is often the dinner of choice for my family. This is why I love the moment that was created at the Chick-fil-A in Columbus, Georgia, when Star Wars and Chick-fil-A came together for a galactic battle that brought great joy to a little boy.
The Merrikens took their entire family for “Galaxy Night” at their local Chick-fil-A. Their 8-year-old son, Caleb, a Star Wars fan, was excited to take part in the festivities. When they arrived, Caleb, who has spinal muscular atrophy and is confined to a wheelchair, found it difficult to join the other kids in the restaurant. He was excluded from the evening’s events. Caleb’s mom was willing to duel with him and asked an employee to borrow his lightsaber for a moment. Caleb and his mom went outside to battle.
As Caleb and his mom were preparing to duel, they were joined by two very worthy opponents. Two Chick-fil-A employees, dressed in Star Wars costumes, intervened. It was a battle royal and a night that Caleb and his family will not forget.
The employees at Chick-fil-A created a very exceptional moment for Caleb. They took time out of their busy work to make one little boy feel a part of the event. It made him feel special. It was an act of kindness that went far beyond a few moments of playful sword fighting. It was an opportunity to make Caleb feel welcomed and accepted. Because these two employees were aware of the situation and were willing to be part of the solution, Caleb’s night went from a bust to out of this world. This is what kindness is capable of doing. This is what it looks like to love our neighbors, no exception. Our loving actions can take a dark moment and turn it into something good.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
