How Does He Know How To Smile?

Mar 11

A COURTHOUSE COMPANIONSHIP VOLUNTEER STORY

by Sandy Friter and Bentley

“The child looked at Bentley, and she quietly asked me, ‘How does he know how to smile?’”

In Dependency Court, Bentley always offers warm hugs and kisses to children, judges, family members, caseworkers, social workers, courthouse employees, and officers!

One day, while waiting her turn, a young girl seemed very frightened. She had a lunch box with snacks. As she petted Bentley on the bench, she whispered, "I'm afraid to go in and talk. I've been here before, but I didn't have to talk out loud."

Judge Mellon asked if Bentley could join her, and of course, we were glad to do whatever would ease her fear and offer comfort.

Together, she and I held Bentley's leash, walked in, and sat on the courtroom steps. The child looked at Bentley, and she quietly asked me, "How does he know how to smile?”

When she saw Bentley kissing Judge Mellon, her fearful hesitancy appeared to "melt" before our eyes. She opened her lunch box and offered Bentley a treat. The rest of her visit went calmly.

It is truly an honor and privilege to join Bentley as he naturally offers comfort to others in the courthouse, schools, Doylestown Hospital, special community events, and as a Roxy responder.

For eight years he has offered joy to others. And he receives joy from others.