A high school freshman who was mocked every day for wearing the same clothes didn’t know what to make of it when two classmates–one of whom had joined in the ribbing–pulled him out of the classroom mid-lesson.
Then, in a moment caught on viral video, he spotted the brand new clothes and sneakers.
Michael Todd told Fox 13 that since arriving at MLK College Preparatory School in Memphis, Tennessee, he had been bullied for 3 weeks.
But after initially joining in mocking Todd, one of his classmates, Kristopher Graham, had a change of heart, and decided to enlist the help of his friend, Antwan Garrett.
They put together a bag of clothes and shoes, including brand new items. Then, they gave the needed items to Todd during third period, recording the touching moment on video.
“When I saw people laugh and bully him, I felt like I needed to do something,” said Graham.
“I told him, ‘We’re in the same third period, and I apologize for laughing at you, and I want to give something to you to make it up.’”
The boy’s kindness inspired others far beyond Tennessee to send clothes and donations to Todd.
“You guys are the best guys of my entire life,” he told the two good samaritans.
In a post on Facebook, along with a picture of the three schoolboys, the school said that they were very proud of the two boys.
“Some good deeds don’t go unnoticed,” said the school statement. “We are so proud of these students who didn’t expect their kind gesture that was caught on camera to go viral.”
Social media commentators also acknowledged the heartwarming deed.
“Y’all are GREAT examples of humanity,” wrote one person. ‘God bless you all always. Fine young men, great families, teachers, and mentors. Keep up your expressions of hope, love, and peace!”
Another praised Graham for making up for his earlier mocking of Todd. “It takes a big man to admit his mistakes and correct them. You are a real-life hero. Thank you both for your good deed. I pray God blesses all three of you boys!”
