Like millions of Americans, I attended my hometown 4th of July parade. Taking my place on a grassy corner alongside fellow citizens, I enjoyed encouraging parade marchers with waves and applause. Although the afternoon was uncomfortably hot, everyone seemed happy to be there.

As the VFW Band neared us, one of the members stepped out of the parade, red-faced and sweating profusely. He stumbled up the curb as several people rushed to help him remove the tuba from his shoulder and guide him to a lawn chair. Bottles of water were offered, and a young teenager held an umbrella over his head to shield him from the sun.

The man wheezed, nodded in gratitude, and sipped water as he regained his equilibrium and strength. Dozens who had witnessed the incident turned back to the parade with soft smiles and gentle nods.

The young umbrella-holder stayed with the man until he was ready to walk to the VFW Hall nearby. Then he helped the man up and walked alongside him, carrying the tuba. Several thanked the young man for his kindness. The teen nodded shyly, clearly not looking for recognition. He smiled at a woman who touched his arm saying, “God bless you, son.” His reply was simple, “I‘m only helping someone who needed it.”

The exchange was quiet and brief, but everyone who saw it was touched. “That was so sweet,” I heard someone say. “It gives me hope for the future.”

Indeed.