Doing good doesn’t have to be much more than taking care of your own. I was blessed to see a young man demonstrating his kindness recently by honoring his elderly mother during dinner at a buffet-style restaurant.

This young man, who looked to be in his late 20s or early 30s, arrived at his table with a woman, a young girl and his elderly mother for a late-evening meal. It was apparent that he was on his way to or from work. He was in uniform, his shirt with a patch on the sleeve emblazoned with the word “Security.”

He seated his mom next to him at the table for four, making sure she was comfortable. From the start, this guy showed a tender side that made me melt. After his mom was settled, he gingerly tucked a paper napkin at the neck of her blouse to help her avoid food and beverage spills. The old woman had limited mobility and did more nodding than speaking. But through her occasional smiles and twinkling eyes, I sensed that she was happy about the time and attention her son offered.

Each time he left the table for another round at the buffet bar, he returned with a plate for his mother, too. He carefully cut her food into bite-sized chunks. He held her glass to her lips so she could drink slowly. Her son was right there to dab her lips with a napkin and watch her enjoy her meal. She seemed to have a great appetite!

Though she only mumbled softly sometimes, she grinned often as she heard the conversation at the table. And the smile in her eyes were as bright as the one on her lips.

This man’s love and devotion stood out like a badge of honor. Sure, some would say that’s the way it should be. But how many stories have we heard about elderly people who are ignored and neglected by their families?

That this guy would spend his Saturday evening taking his frail mom on an outing and helping her enjoy a meal deserves an honorable mention. I didn’t ask his name. But I did stop to tell this stranger how much I appreciated and admired what he was doing. He thanked me. The old woman smiled.

I told her, “Lady, you’ve got a good son.” As I walked away, her eyes said thanks.