2nd Grader Sees Boy with Autism Crying on 1st Day of School and His Compassion Is Going Viral
Christian Moore and Connor Crites were strangers. And 8-year-old Christian had no idea Connor was a boy with autism. When Christian saw Connor crying outside the school, in his heart, he only knew that he had to do something -- so he did. And even though this beautiful moment took place a few years ago, it still holds a powerful message for all of us today.
Boy Holds Hand of Crying Classmate
For Connor Crites, the first day of second grade was completely overwhelming. He sat in the corner crying. And when Christian Moore spotted him, the sweet boy didn't miss a beat.
"I saw him on the ground with Connor as Connor was crying in the corner, and he was consoling him,” Christian's mom, Courtney Moore, recalled. "[Christian] grabs his hand and walks him to the front door. We waited until the bell rang and he walked him inside of the school. The rest is history. They have an inseparable bond."
Proud mama Courtney couldn't resist sharing the picture of the boys holding hands on social media. And the beauty of this simple act of kindness had the photo going viral immediately!
But Christian's compassionate act also meant the world to Connor's mom, April Crites. The first day of school is just as hard for her.
"I fear every day that someone is going to laugh at him because he doesn't speak correctly, or laugh at him because he doesn't sit still or because he jumps up and down and flaps his hands," she says.
So, seeing the pure love expressed by these two eight-year-old boys filled both moms with pride.
Inspiring Lesson on Love for All of Us
Seeing the little boy hold the hand of a crying classmate with autism has deeply touched so many. The powerful image embodies just how Jesus loves and calls us to love.
"It doesn't matter color, it doesn't matter gender, it doesn't matter disability, and it doesn't matter anything — just be kind, open your heart. . . it's what we need in this world," April said of Christian's response to Connor.
"One act of kindness can change someone's life, can change the world," both moms said. "That's all it takes."
But Christian and Connor's photo isn't the only lesson for us. It's also how the two boys are responding to their 15 minutes of fame.
"He was kind to me," Connor said. "I was in the first day of school and I started crying, then he helped me and I was happy... He found me and held my hand and I got happy tears."
These sweet second graders don't understand what all the fuss is about.
"Be nice," both Christian and Connor said together.
It's that simple.
WATCH: 2nd Grader Holds Hand of Boy with Autism
This content originally appeared on GodTube.com; used with permission.
Photo Credit: ©Facebook/Courtney Coko Moore
Originally published July 01, 2025.
