The idea of kindness from a 7-year-old

I met this little one, Amaya who belongs to Julie of Juju’s Tutus when she was this little. (See full session)

She did a mustache pose immediately after this frame with her fingers under her nose out of nowhere. I laughed so hard that I think the image came out blurry.

I later photographed her as a clown, and she was adorable too  – a total clownie. (See full session)

I recently photographed her and her momma for PHOENIX magazine. (See full session)

So you might be familiar with her face, but I want to share her heart with you. We need one of those feel good posts right?

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What I love most about this is I know Amaya came up with this buddy bench concept entirely on her own. Amaya is who she is because of her mom and dad. I know Julie wouldn’t take credit for Amaya’s character but when you see a mature 7-year-old speak confidently as she did on camera – about being kind to others, admitting she was one of those lonely kids that she’s now trying to help, you know she’s something special. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, her family is loving and kind. Amaya is raised in love, with correction, guidance, and encouragement – and now kids everywhere get to benefit from her upbringing, they never have to be alone at school!

I read an online article by The Washington Post called, “Are you raising nice kids?” The article talked about teaching children, to be kind and make caring for others priority, not to seek their own happiness or achievements as most parents emphasize. The article is amazing, and I think applicable to adults as well.

My darling Amaya, I’m so proud to call you my friend. I have enjoyed seeing you become the sweet girl you are today and look forward to watching you transition into a beautiful young lady. You are a great example and ambassador of Jesus and I pray that your confidence in who you are only grows and you learn to continue to love and be kind to everyone, even if people are difficult to love, because we know love can make big changes. You are changing and touching the hearts of many and you’re pretty special to a lot of people, even ones that haven’t met you yet. xo

How to Give

The special buddy benches cost $300-$500 each. If you want to donate money to the Sonoran Foothills School’s Buddy Bobcat Program, you can send a check directly to the school office with “bobcat buddy benches” in the memo. The school is located at 32150 N. Foothills Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85085.