If there were ever a time that Maxwell would prove his love for his sister, today was the day. We were seeing my brother off at the train station, which may seem like an ordinary and mundane place. But for Max, the sight of trains and buses ignites a burst of energy and eloquence that is otherwise reserved for sightings of large earth-moving vehicles and favorite uncles and aunties. He was so focused on the train that I didn't even think he was aware of Maya's presence who was peacefully sleeping at his feet in the car seat carrier... until...
He suddenly became anxious and upset about an approaching baggage cart. I saw the cart and expected that it would be passing by us, though several feet away. However, in the eye of this toddler, he was perceiving impending danger. I quickly realized what he was thinking when he suddenly pointed and expressed that something was "coming", which was immediately followed by a valiant effort to grab Maya's carrier and move it away from the path of the baggage cart. My initial concern was that he would tip her over, so I helped him move her a couple feet over to where I was standing.
Max's eyes stayed on the baggage cart as it passed without incident. Then, gradually his brow relaxed, and his face was full of relief. As I replayed in my mind the sequence of events that took place in those few seconds, my heart swelled with pride and admiration. "Were you trying to protect Maya from the cart?" I asked. He just nodded and looked at Maya. I tried not to cry as I pondered the bravery and sense of responsibility and love that was displayed by this little man! Thank you, Max, for reminding me and inspiring me to do what I can to protect and facilitate the well-being of those entrusted to my care and those unable to protect themselves.
The Hero!
Maya and big brother Max
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.
John 15:13