Good for the soul

A few days ago a friend of mine took his family to a restaurant for supper. His six-year-old son asked if he could say grace.

As theu bowed their  heads he said, "God is good. God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"

Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby he heard a woman remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't even know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"

Hearing this, his son burst into tears and asked him,  "Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me?"

As he held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.

He winked at his son and said, "I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer."

"Really?" his son asked.

"Cross my heart." Then in a theatrical whisper he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), "Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul sometimes."

Naturally, he bought his kids ice cream at the end of the meal. His son stared at his for a moment and then did something my friend said he will remember the rest of his life.

He picked up his sundae and without a word walked over and placed it in front of the woman.

With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes, and my soul is good already."