Little Brave Man

I had the privilege of meeting an eight-year-old hero named Sean. It turns out that Sean has had more trial and anguish sent his way, than most who have lived eight times his eight. Our relationship began when I was heading home on the last plane of the day and he and his father and I shared the last row. Sean had a dear personality, and as his father slept, Sean tried to engage me in some of his ‘how many pennies are in this hand’ games – activities that I am usually highly resistant to play at that time of night. But it was hard to resist Sean’s self-confidence, his positive attitude and his creative tenacity. For a little guy, he was amazing and we became fast friends.

His story

After a while his Dad woke up and the two began to share their story with me. After his parents divorce, Sean and his sister lived in another city with their Mom. She suffered severe medical complications from a chronic condition, and at the age of thirty-five, passed away. This necessitated that the children move to a new city, go to new schools and live with their Dad. Dad, a shift worker, is now a single parent who looks after his two children, and although obviously overwhelmed, loves them dearly.

At the time I met Sean, he was returning from the United States, where he had undergone a very long and painful operation to deal with the symptoms of a highly degenerative disease and had subsequently completed a five-week course of rehabilitation. It was hard for me to fathom that this jewel, sitting next to me had endured such pain and sadness, for he was so alive. He was also very proud of himself, for the doctors had said that he had come back far faster than many others.

He couldn’t wait to get home, so he could get back to school. Dad fretted, for you see Sean was failing math and his father was obviously overwhelmed with worry about the poor mark. It was clear that Sean had more challenges ahead, and it was also clear to me that his vibrant spirit needed a memorable moment that could serve as a reminder of his greatness.

The wisdom

We were just about to land and I asked Sean if he knew what the word courageous meant? He nodded and then I told him, that in my opinion, he had more courage than many, many adults that I have known. His eyes, wide as saucers, were riveted on mine and in that moment I knew he would never forget our time together. I then asked his permission to tell his story…the story of his bravery. In asking him this question, I was telling Sean that which is important for each one of us to remember…that we do have a story and it is worth the telling!