The Place in the Parade

The children were choosing jobs for a small neighborhood parade. Amelia hoped to carry the bright banner at the front. She had helped paint its yellow letters and imagined everyone seeing her first.

The leader chose her friend Poppy to carry one side. Amelia was asked to hand out paper flags along the route. She took the stack without smiling. Poppy came over looking excited, but Amelia turned away before hearing what she said.

While the others lined up, Amelia noticed Poppy rubbing one hand against her skirt. Her friend was nervous about carrying the banner straight. Amelia remembered how carefully they had painted the letters together. She walked over and helped Poppy untwist the pole's ribbon.

She told her that the banner looked lovely and that she would do well. Poppy smiled with relief. Then Amelia went to her own place with the flags.

As the parade moved down the pavement, little children reached eagerly for the flags. Amelia made sure each one received a turn. When the banner passed the corner, she waved to Poppy instead of looking away.

God's Word tells us to rejoice with those who rejoice. We can be disappointed about our own hopes and still treat someone else's happiness kindly. Amelia's friend had not become her enemy by receiving the job she wanted. There was room in the same parade for Poppy's gladness and Amelia's useful work.