NOAH'S HUGS

HUGS ARE GOOD

There's a sweet little boy named Noah who attends the same church I do. His grandparents bring him almost every Sunday and have explained that Noah struggles with autism. When I first met Noah, he seemed very shy and didn't utter a word when I was around him. There were times he did make a few loud sounds during the service though. To the congregation's credit, no one turned around to see who made the noise. They knew it was Noah. He's a part of the church family and is accepted just as he is. Noah has been attending school and is progressing well. He now talks a little and is learning to call people by name. The most endearing news is that Noah now gives hugs. I received three from him yesterday. What I love about Noah's hugs is they come from his heart. He accompanied each hug with the words, "I give you hug", and that truly warmed my heart. I pray for Noah's continued success and hope he never stops offering hugs.