Wheels on the Bus

Yes, that's right, I ride the bus to school. And on the way, I meet the most fascinating people. It might sound strange, but sometimes it seems to me that when I ride the bus, I get the chance to meet people from all over the world.  As if the whole of humanity takes that humble little journey with me. Some get on, others get off, and some sit beside me and share the ride. In each face, young or old, I see the Face of Christ.
Today I met a man because I smiled at him. It's amazing how much joy a simple smile will bring to someone else.  He sat down a couple seats away and asked me how old I was (actually, he asked if I was 16). Then he tried to figure out my ethnicity - and this always brings laughs because people usually guess wrong the first time. This poor fellow went through a whole litany before I gave in and told him, and this is how it went: "Are you Filipino? Japanese? Mexican? Thai? Cambodian? Korean?..." When I enumerated my ethnic heritage, he exclaimed in amazement.
He ended up telling me about how he decided to change his life and do good, staying away from violence and focusing on his music. He remarked on how great it was that he turned his life around so he could meet someone like me after spending five years locked up.  It turns out he's a songwriter currently working with the Island Def Jam Music Group.  And, get this - he asked if I'd be interested in collaborating on his music video. Even said I could teach him some violin. Maybe I'll hear a "holler" soon...
On my return trip from school this evening, I met a remarkable young woman who is rising above a dysfunctional family situation and working hard to find a better life for herself and her family.  Despite all the anger and pain resulting from years of emotional abuse, she's trying to do what's right and keep her brother from succumbing to a life of addiction.  We had a very long and deep conversation (the length of the bus ride) about growing up with emotional abuse and how we dealt with various situations, including our take on the future.  We talked about medication, psychotherapy and family dynamics. Having something in common with this lady brought us to a profound soul-to-soul recognition; she cried when I talked about a difficult time in my life because she knew exactly where I was standing on that day. 
Thank You, Jesus, for these beautiful people, these little children of Yours whom You have placed in my path.  Please continue to watch over them and convince them always of Your love.