My daughter recently went to Los Angeles for a young Messianic Jewish conference. The event was on the topic of Mussar (essentially ethics). On her flight there she experienced something wonderful–the goodness of humanity. I wanted to share her story with you.
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Today on my flight
The captain came on
“Ladies and Gentleman, today we have a very special passenger onboard,
“His name is , he’s on his way to Los Angeles to become a rock star. He is here today…with the Make a Wish Foundation for children fighting leukemia”
The plane grew silent, his voice cracked.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Mr. Cayden”
Today on my flight a small boy walked down the isle
As the plane erupted with cheers and clapping
He wore a brown fedora and a button down shirt
He carried his signature pen
And his oxygen
“Ladies and Gentleman, young Cayden wants to be famous just like Justin Bieber,
he is here today to give you his autograph, please help make him famous”
Today on my flight
Cayden became famous
He sang to us, his voice pure like an Angel
His body small waving back and forth to the song
Today Cayden became a rock star
He showed off his hairless head
And said he wanted to see the world
…just like a all the stars
We cheered him on asking for song after song
We laughed, we sang, we cried
For life to be so cruel to such a fragile being
Today I saw expensive businessmen give their seats so an upcoming star can be treated like one.
Today I saw a dyeing body thriving on hope.
Today young Cayden became famous.
At the end of our flight the captain came on again.
His voice a bit stronger this time “Ladies and Gentleman lets have another round of applause for our little star”
Today I saw 100 people stand and applaud
Our eight-year-old friend
“Cayden” the captain’s voice shook, knowing this might be his last flight.
“It’s been an honor having you on board”
We exited the plane as Cayden gave each man & women a hug and a shake.
Handing us his autograph with his pale little hands
“Don’t forget me!” his eyes shined with gratitude.
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This week we are in the fourth chapter of Pirkei Avot studies. Avot 4:19 states, “It is not in our power to explain either the tranquillity of the wicked or the suffering of the righteous.”
When I reflect of the suffering of Cayden I’m perplexed. But it moves me to compassion–perhaps that is the point.
Join with me in making other wishes come true. Donate to Make a Wish Foundation today.
