In "What Happened During the Icestorm" by Jim Heynen, the boys show compassion in several ways that highlight their kindness and concern for others.
One significant moment is when the boys decide to check on their neighbor, Mr. Hargrove, who is elderly and lives alone. When the icestorm hits, they realize he might be in trouble. The story says, “They knew Mr. Hargrove would need help getting firewood.” This shows that the boys care about his well-being and want to make sure he stays warm during the storm.
This act of checking on Mr. Hargrove is important because it illustrates the theme of community care. The boys could have easily ignored him or stayed inside, but instead, they put his needs before their own comfort. Their willingness to help someone in need shows that even in tough times, compassion can bring people together.
Another example of compassion is when they share their food with others who might be struggling during the storm. The text mentions, “They opened their home to friends who had no power.” This shows that rather than keeping their resources to themselves, they choose to help those less fortunate.
This sharing of food and warmth demonstrates how empathy can lead to positive actions. By providing comfort and support to others, the boys not only help their friends but also strengthen their community bonds.
In conclusion, the boys in "What Happened During the Icestorm" display acts of compassion through their concern for Mr. Hargrove and their willingness to share with others. These actions are powerful reminders of how kindness can shine even in difficult circumstances.