One of Greg's students didn't return from lunch with the rest of his class today. This isn't surprising in middle school. Kids find ways to get out of class and usually turn up with a pass from somewhere after a while.
When he did return, Greg asked if everything was okay.
"No," the boy replied, blue nurse pass in hand. "I'm going home."
Greg didn't have to inquire too much. The boy looked sick in a way that told the whole story.
"Well," Greg started to say, arms opened to demonstrate his understanding, "let me help you get your stuff."
But before Greg could finish this statement, the boy moved into Greg's open arms and hugged him. In front of the entire class.
The other kids stared. Said nothing.
Greg, once he got over his own surprise, patted the boy on the back, told him to feel better, and sent him on his way.
Now, I've never met a 7th grade boy who would dream to interpret partly opened arms as a "hug me" gesture, but I've been smiling all day over the fact that this one did.
9 comments:
greg must be a good guy.
Ahhhh, he just wanted to be comforted when he felt so sick. Poor li'l guy. However, as I was reading your entry, I was pretty sure you were going to report that Greg got puked upon. I think yours is a much better story. I"m sure Greg would agree ;-)
Kids can always surprise you in the best ways!
cdoc
Doesn't anyone else think it's hilarious?
I think it's funny. Maybe the boy was so sick he was hallucinating and thought Greg was his mom!
This is the most heartwarming thing I've heard in a long time! I think I'LL be smiling all day picturing it :)
I told this story to people at dinner. It's a winner!
I told the story too at dinner and had my guests in stitches. While we all thought it hilarious, we could relate more easily with the boy who wanted sympathy and comfort. Not being a teacher,I really don't realize how unusual it is for middle schoolers to interpret open arms as the "hug gesture." I think everyone should give more hugs. Of course, I'm not a parent sending my children off to school. Speaking of ... maybe I don't know a damned thing about this whole subject and should just sign off ....
kwin -- I was laughing at the thought of your boss hugging you.
Glad you all see the humor. And I do see the sweetness too, don't get me wrong.
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