Can You Dig It.

Sandler has always had a soft spot for homeless people and those he sees as less fortunate. He has been a philanthropist ever since I can remember. Whenever an opportunity arrises, he does not hesitate to jump in and help where he can.

After years of him getting mad at me for not giving money to every person on the corner, I finally had to explain to my altruistic son, that as much as his big heart and selflessness are beautiful qualities, unfortunately, we cannot help everyone who is in need. He was not satisfied with my explanation and was adamant that he can do more. As with everything he is passionate about, he was not going to give up on his new crusade. I knew when his mind was not busy mentally preparing for his next skateboard trick, it was going to be focused on helping the poor.

About a week ago, our buddy Douglas, who collects cans around the park and watches the skateboarders daily, gifted Sandler a toy he had found amongst some recycled goods. Sandler was thrilled and politely accepted the gift. When he came back to sit down for a water break he picked up the dinosaur wand and studied it. He then noted he did not think it was brand new, but that he did not mind because it had come from his “fwiend”. I explained to Sandler that it does not matter what the gift is or where it comes from, but that it is the thought that counts. He nodded in understanding and showed it off to his peers as they skated off together.

Hours later, he ended his skating session and made sure he headed over to thank Douglas again for the toy before set off to the parking lot. I opened the back of the car, ready for him to unload his board and gear, but he was no where to be found. I scanned the park and sidewalk but did not see him anywhere. After a quick panic attack, I finally caught a glimpse of him upside down with his legs hanging out of the garbage can. I rushed over to pull him from the rubbish and asked what he was doing.

Sandler replied, “I’m helping my ‘fwiend’ get cans so he can have some money to buy things.”

I am not sure how much of the dirt was from the waste bin or the hours in the skatepark—but the kid was filthy. I handed him some wet wipes and asked that he scrub his entire body. Though I did not really want to smell like Sandler, I had to give him the proudest hug in the world for going the extra mile to try to help his buddy.

We made an agreement that he is to stay out of garbage bins, but we will save all of our cans from home for Douglas—giving Sandler peace of mind; knowing he is making a difference for someone a little less fortunate than him.

- Nikki