A Kind Word audio version is available at the end of this post.
Social media, for all its wonders, can often feel like a battlefield. People hurl insults instead of ideas, and it seems like everyone’s got an axe to grind. It’s a shame. These platforms could be places for sharing stories, connecting with folks, and spreading a bit of joy. Instead, they sometimes resemble the Wild West, where the loudest, angriest voices drown out the rest. Maybe it’s time we all took a step back and remembered the value of a kind word and a good laugh.
With that said, I offer this story to possibly inspire and uplift you as to the contribution we can make:
Once upon a time in a small town nestled by the Mississippi River, there lived a young boy named Sam. Sam was curious, always asking questions and seeking adventure. His favorite pastime was reading stories of heroes and far-off lands. But in his town, folks were more concerned with daily chores than dreams of grandeur.
Sam’s Quest
One summer afternoon, Sam sat by the river with an old book he’d found in his grandfather’s attic. It told the tale of a hero who saved his village from a great storm by using his wits and bravery. Inspired, Sam decided to go on his own quest, though he wasn’t sure what he was looking for.
As he roamed the town, he noticed the old clock tower, its hands frozen in time. The townspeople had long since given up on fixing it, claiming it was beyond repair. Sam, however, saw it as his opportunity for a grand adventure. He climbed up the tower, armed with nothing but a pocketful of tools and his unwavering determination.
Inside, the clock’s gears were rusty and tangled. Sam worked tirelessly, cleaning and oiling the parts. Hours turned into days, but he never gave up. Word spread of Sam’s efforts, and soon, the townspeople gathered to watch. They’d never seen such dedication in someone so young.
On the third day, as the sun began to set, Sam tightened the last bolt. He held his breath and pushed the lever. The clock’s hands began to move, slowly at first, then steadily ticking away. The chimes rang out, clear and strong, echoing through the town.
The villagers cheered, their spirits lifted by Sam’s success. They realized that even the smallest among them could make a big difference with determination and heart. Sam’s adventure reminded them that every challenge is an opportunity for heroism, no matter how small the hero might be.
From that day on, the town looked at their young dreamer with newfound respect. Sam continued to read his books and dream of adventures, but he knew that sometimes, the greatest journey was right in his own backyard.
Tom Monson is an award-winning author and filmmaker.
