We’ve all seen them—the homeless beggars who stand near stop lights and on the streets of the downtown, asking passerby’s for change.
Some people give them money or buy them a meal. But most scoff under their breath, or turn the other cheek, assuming that any money given to this poor person will automatically go to drugs or alcohol.
In the United States, we’re used to seeing grown people begging for money and food. But in countries all over the world, many children are the ones out begging for survival.
John Thuo is one of those children.
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The young boy from the streets of Nairobi, Kenya, has spent years collecting change from people passing by.
It’s no way to live, but it’s all John had ever known, and with no family to properly care for him, the orphan was alone in the world.
One day, John approached a car to ask for money. But as the driver rolled the window down, the young boy was alarmed by what he saw.
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32-year-old Gladys Kamande was driving in her car, hooked up to the tubes and breathing machines that keep her alive. Gladys explained to John that her lungs had collapsed, so she had to rely on oxygen tanks to keep her functioning.
In that moment, little John was moved to tears. He grabbed Gladys’ hand through the window and with his heart of gold, decided to give her all of the money he’d been given that day.
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His emotional reaction and admirable sacrifice captured the attention of the Internet after a person standing nearby had the pleasure of watching this story unfold. They shared the pictures on Facebook, and people could not get enough of John’s selflessness.
In the days that followed, the picture and story spread like wildfire across social media. It wasn’t long before donations came pouring in for the woman who needed medical help, and the homeless boy with a huge heart.
$80,000 raised by complete strangers made it possible for Gladys to receive treatment in India.
John was rescued by a woman named Nissy Wambugu, who adopted him into her loving home, and made it possible for him to attend school.
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John’s selflessness is inspiring. It’s a beautiful reminder that even when we have it bad, there’s someone who probably has it worse. But caring for others is what we’re called to do. I challenge you today to thank God for your circumstance, and praise Him through the storm. A grateful heart is all God needs to move on your behalf, just like He did for Gladys and John.
