Not many kids volunteer for manual labor. Generally, children are pushed into doing chores, sometimes under threat of consequence. Young Brian Kelly is an exception. Since his father’s deployment to Syria, Brian’s been missing their outdoors time together. His father is undoubtedly one of his greatest role models.

One day, he noticed his neighbors, the Cravens family, doing yard work. On his own volition, he proposed to help them. Yes, help them do some oft-dreaded yardwork. He’s a special kid in special circumstances.

Dean Cravens hadn’t the ability to reject the sweetheart. Although they didn’t know it at the time, this was the spark of a wonderful friendship. Soon enough, Brian become a regular in the Cravens household. Now, he’s practically a part of the family – almost like a son to Dean.

Brian comes over every single day to help with the yard. The Cravens are always happy to see him. And fortunately, there’s always more work to be done! The work seems to occupy Brian’s mind while giving him something productive to do.

Dean, a father of three daughters, is especially happy to spend time with Brian – he’s been lacking father-son activities all his adult life.

The experience seems gratifying to both of them. They’ve even started playing basketball and golf together!

Dean’s been a wonderful guiding force in Brian’s life, but surely, Brian still misses his dad.

Fortunately, Dean and his family have stepped up to soften the blow. Surely, Brian’s father would be happy and proud that someone has taken such a liking to his son, providing pivotal guidance as Brian matures. When his dad returns, Dean’s work will be deeply appreciated. All three of them can spend some outdoors time together soon enough.

Brian truly seems like a very kind, sweet, and hardworking child. His dad did a great job raising him. With Dean by his side, Brian’s sure to continue along that same path, growing into an upstanding young man.

Honestly, Dean loves the extra help around the house. Taking care of a large yard isn’t exactly easy – it takes a lot of time and care. As a bonus, Brian’s been learning a lot about landscaping and general yardwork. His enthusiasm keeps spirits high, always eager for more. He constantly seeks out work, unlike most kids his age. That work ethic and enthusiasm will prove valuable in life.

And for Dean, a trip to the hardware store is received by an eager young man willing to work hard!

Seriously though, Dean’s guidance has been a huge boon to Brian, especially emotionally.

Dean’s daughter Molly, took to Twitter with images of the two working, along with some of Brian’s backstory. The post currently has over 20,000 likes. Brian and Dean have quite the following.

Family is family, but friends and neighbors can be family, too. In the wake of his father’s deployment, Brian’s been searching for guidance and someone to spend time with. Props to Dean for being there and becoming a much-needed role model. And hopefully tensions in Syria soon subside, reuniting Brian with his father.

Circumstances shape all lives. Unfortunately for Brian, his father’s deployment’s left a pretty large void that nobody can truly fill. But others can help. Fortunately for Brian, he lives in a wonderful, caring community with those willing to lovingly foster his growth.

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Source: Shareably, Molly Craven