To The Least Of These

Kate never ceases to amaze me. 

When dealing with someone who has intellectual disabilities – it seems some areas of their abilities are much more advanced than others. 

Like when you tell Kate to be quite – she continues to talk saying, I’m quite, and I’m not talking.  How is it that she cannot understand that she is still talking and NOT being quiet?

Yet, when she sees someone in need, or is not happy, or hurt, or sad – she gets that.  I’m not sure the correct term to use, compassion, empathy, love?

The “least of these” is a phrase that originates from Matthew 25:31–46, where Jesus speaks of those in need.

Kate has no problem asking someone if she can help them when she sees a need, even if it is only in her mind.  Like rolling down her window in the car and asking a stranger if they needed a ride.  After all–they looked like they did-apparently. 

Or like last Sunday at the Camp Hope Halloween Party (#3 for her).  I got there a little early and was observing the pinata beating.  She was very excited to go and grab a handful of the candy scattered on the floor.  She has this little jump she does when she is excited and kind of pumps her fist in the air.  She did that and then I saw her expression change drastically, to a very thoughtful look.

She had spotted a little girl dressed in a skeleton costume standing on the sideline.  She had her arms crossed in front of her chest, chin down, lower lip out.  Kate walked over to her and leaned over and was talking to her.  I was too far away to hear what Kate was saying.  The little girl’s expression never changed however.  Kate offered her a piece of candy – still no change.  So Kate took all the candy in her hands and put it gently on the crossed arms of the little girl, showed her open palms to the little girl and it looked like she said, “there, for you”. 

Then she did her turn and a little jump and was off to talk to someone else. 

How does she do that... and why can’t more people be like Kate and just show a little compassion or empathy or love, to the least of these?

I’m going to try harder today.  Thanks Kate.