Feeling Like One of the Guys

I have been completely amazed with the kids in our ward. Maddox went into the primary this January and did great. For the first few weeks he went, but was still hesitant. Just before conference weekend the primary had an activity. When we got there Maddox was worried that he didn't have his church clothes on and didn't want to participate in the activities they were about to do. After taking an item out of a bag to see what group they would be in the sweetest nine year old turned to Maddox and said, "Hey Maddox, it looks like we are in the same group. Do you want to come with me?" Maddox's attitude completely turned around. He was excited and turned to waive at me. I was so impressed that a nine year old would turn and ask a three year old if he wanted to come with him before finding his friends.
When the primary came in with their reverence bucks to buy their prizes I looked out and saw little Maddox standing, looking up and talking to all the big boys who had befriended him. I was furthermore impressed when I saw that the boy had taken out his reverence bucks and counted both his and Maddox's. Maddox had had less reverence bucks then he did, so he divided the amount of money equally and helped Maddox make their purchases. They bought two of everything. After they were out of money they went to a table to divide up the items they had bought. They each had the same items by the time it was over and I couldn't believe the maturity of this boy who had not only touched my heart, but who had made primary an exciting place for Maddox to be. Since then Maddox has looked forward to seeing his new friend every Sunday.
After that primary activity we have had the neighborhood kids come to play with Maddox. The youngest of the group is Maddox followed by the kids 8-13 years of age. They are patient with him and so sweet. Maddox loves that they come over and feels like he is one of the big kids.

Here is a picture of the kids playing baseball.