David Rosenman is a physician and assistant professor in Rochester, MN. He’s also a father with two young children. When David recently took his 9-year-old girl to breakfast at a coffee shop he never expected to come with such an incredible story now touching the hearts of thousands of people across the country.
When they arrived at the restaurant, David planned to read his newspaper while his daughter worked on her knitting project. But before they dug into their respective activities, she looked up at her father and asked if they could “just be together.” Instead of brushing off her request and reading, David knew what he needed to do. He spent the entire lunch devoted to a magical conversation with his little girl. They laughed, they joked, they shared stories and ideas — and most of all, they simply enjoyed each other’s company.
But before they left the restaurant, David returned from paying the bill and found a mysterious note sitting on the table where they ate. He picked up this anonymous message from a stranger, and was so taken aback by the handwritten words that he shared it on Facebook later that day.
David’s story now has over 10,000 shares, and when you see what the note says, you’ll knowexactly why…
Dear Fellow Human Beings,
This morning, at her request, I took our 9-year-old daughter to a coffee shop. She brought with her a little crocheting activity; I brought the newspaper, a notebook & pen, and my phone. This was going to be an outing not unlike others we’d had before: while sitting at the same table, we’d do our own things — she’d keep herself occupied with something, and I’d catch-up on emails, organize my week, get work done, etc. Sound familiar?
Today, she made one additional request: ‘Daddy, can you not read the paper or doodle or check email today? Can we just be together?’ I’m not trying to be melodramatic; that was her question.”
I wished it hadn’t taken her past experience and her courageous reaching out for me to give her the attention she so wanted and needed.”
This anonymous message was enough of a reinforcement for me, that I hope more people might be guided by its power and by its author’s thoughtfulness.”
“Please don’t wait for your child or other loved one to plead for your attention like mine did — he or she might not. Expect that no one will leave a note for you — such beauty in this world is far too rare. I invite you to share the gift of this experience with me: choose to be present today — even for just a little while — for someone you love. If you see it happen somewhere, consider leaving a note — it sure does leave an impression.
— David”
This is such a powerful message — and what a heartwarming picture David paints for us. Please SHARE this with your friends on Facebook!
