There’s a little boy living in western Washington.  As he would tell you, he is 4-11/12 years old.  Nigel is very intelligent and full of energy.  He also has a mind of his own.  If he doesn’t want to do something, it’s a challenge finding a way to get him to do it.

That’s why his parents weren’t sure he would participate when his pre-school had a fund-raising event recently.  The children were to get pledges from family members and friends, based on the number of laps they walked around the classroom. 

Nigel agreed to take part, and the family went to the event.  Of course, there was still the possibility that Nigel would change his mind at the last moment.  He was unpredictable in this type of situation.  But, true to his word, the little guy took off walking. 

The event had a time limit for the children.  From the time they got started until the end of the school session that day was two hours.  Because of the children’s ages, four and five years old, they were told they didn’t have to participate or could stop at any time.  Nigel plunged ahead.  He walked, and he walked, around and around.  He stopped only for occasional drinks of juice or water.  When the time limit was over, there were only two participants left, Nigel and one other child.  Nigel had gone 97 laps around the room.  The other child had walked 99 laps.

When he finished, Nigel went directly to his parents.  His matter-of-fact first words were, “I hope those kids won’t have to be sick anymore.”

Children Nigel’s age can be quite into themselves.  It’s natural.  But their feats of accomplishment can be grand, when they are given the choice and the opportunity.  Nigel wasn’t engaged in a competition.  He simply had a purpose!

Our hope is for you to be on purpose,

Lana Keating