Will You Be My Friend?

     Today I had the opportunity to attend a fundraiser at a local Dairy Queen location.  I was invited by a trainer from my gym who owns the franchise...yes I know a trainer that owns an ice cream store, irony at it's best :)   The event today was a fundraiser for the Christina S. Walsh Breast Cancer Foundation.  This organization donates money to cancer stricken patients to be used at their own discretion.  They can use it for medication, treatment, or anything they deem necessary to help them in a crucial time of their life.

     I went to the event knowing that there would be face painting, a DJ, crafts, and of course ice cream.  Upon my arrival I was greeted warmly by the chair person and the franchise owner.  Before I knew it I was given a behind the scenes tour and even took my turn at handing out the delicious frozen treats and change.  An hour or so into the event a sweet 7 year old girl came up to say hi to me at the craft table.  She introduced herself like so, "My name is Amaryllis, like the flower. What's yours".  Simple enough but as soon as I answered her eyes light up.  She immediately sat down and put me to work constructing a beaded bracelet.  She then asked what my job was as Mrs. New Jersey.  I told her as straight forward as I could that my job is to serve my community for an entire year.  I explained that a large part of my platform work involved Special Olympics and special needs children.  I told her that I am their friend and my job is to help them to compete.  She sat for a moment and then told me she had a question.  She leaned forward and whispered into my ear "Will you be my friend? I don't have any and school is hard for me.  I want to be a special kid so you can help me."  I was taken back a bit.  To me this was a charming little girl who wasn't afraid to greet a complete stranger.

For the rest of her time at the event I made it my mission to treat her like my friend.  We finished off her bracelet and then enjoyed some ice cream together.  Next up was some face painting and then another question from my new friend.  This was one that I was ready for! She asked if she could wear my crown and be a princess too. Of course I obliged and everyone there made a big to do over her.  We walked around and took pictures and let the other girls try it on as well.  Last up was some dancing to "Happy".  Before we knew it it was time for her to leave. She hugged me good bye and waved as she walked away to her car.

I went to this event to volunteer on National Cancer Survivor's Day and left with a new little friend.  It just goes to show you that God puts you right where you need to be.  Did I need to go to fulfill a promise to a friend or did I need to go because this girl needed a friend for the day.  I say the latter!  Experiences like these are what being Mrs. New Jersey International is all about.  I have had some amazing opportunities and  have attended elaborate events with much more to come my way, but impacting someones life with a smile and a hug will always go farther with me.

Live What You Love,
Amber Mack
Mrs. New Jersey International 2015