More From Jesse Jeanne Neve

It has been many years since my cheerful little giver surprised us with his special treat on our vacation. I am proud and excited to say that little Jon has turned into a wonderful young man. His kindness and thoughtful attitude toward others has shone through in many aspects of his life.

Jon recently graduated college with a degree in computer science. While he was in college, he and his friend Kai worked on a project together streamlining the medical records system in Guam.

Jon has always been looking out to help “the little guy.” In his small parochial grade school, he used to go out of his way to high-five little kindergarteners that he passed in the hallway, just to make them feel included and noticed. In high school, he joined the Link Crew, which was a group of upperclassmen who organized events for the younger grades.

And at home, Jon has always thought about his siblings’ feelings when he did things. Now, I’m not saying we haven’t had some wonderful arguments and rivalries between our four children. But Jon helped his younger brother, Daniel, pay for a video game that he wanted. And in turn, because of Jon’s kindness to him, Daniel did the same for his younger brother, Ben, a few years later.

Just last week, Jon surprised his girlfriend by spending hours out in the Minnesota winter weather hanging Christmas lights on her house. When she arrived home that night, her house was beautifully shining.

Jon shines God’s light of love and kindness wherever he goes. He is a wonderful example to others and freely gives of himself and his resources.