Joshua, a young boy who had been adopted by Carl and Jessica, was eagerly looking forward to his upcoming 10th birthday. Despite the newfound love and luxury in his life, Joshua couldn’t forget his friends back at the orphanage.
He wanted to invite them to his birthday party and make them a part of his new family’s celebration. Excitedly, he approached his parents with the idea, unaware of the financial constraints they were facing.
Jessica and Carl couldn’t afford to host a large birthday party for 25 children, as Joshua had hoped. They were worried about breaking the news to him without disappointing him. Jessica gently explained that they couldn’t accommodate so many guests due to the cost involved. Joshua felt a sense of disappointment but remained determined to do something for his friends.
Remembering how his older brother, Neil, collected plastic bottles to sell and save money, Joshua came up with an idea. He decided to collect plastic bottles himself and use the money he earned to invite his friends from the orphanage. Neil initially laughed at Joshua’s plan, believing it would be impossible for him to collect enough bottles in just a week. However, Joshua remained determined.
He found an abandoned parking lot near a cemetery, an area considered spooky and avoided by other children. Despite the rumors of ghosts, Joshua ventured into the lot and started collecting plastic bottles from the heaps of garbage. Each day, he returned home with more bottles, determined to reach his goal.
Unbeknownst to Joshua, a man had been observing him and followed him home. The man, the owner of the parking lot, approached Joshua and his mother, causing fear and concern. However, to their surprise, the man expressed his gratitude towards Joshua. He had noticed Joshua diligently cleaning up the lot and sorting the garbage. In appreciation of Joshua’s efforts, he wanted to thank him.
The man offered Joshua a reward, suggesting a new bike or two as a gesture of gratitude. However, Joshua had a different idea. Instead, he asked the man to provide gifts for his friends from the orphanage. The man agreed, and two days later, Joshua’s home was filled with lights, laughter, and the presence of his old friends.
With the help of the man’s generosity, Joshua’s birthday party became a joyous celebration. Neil proudly shared how he had received a new PlayStation as a gift from the parking lot owner, thanks to Joshua’s selfless actions. Joshua cut the cake surrounded by his friends and the staff from the orphanage, creating a beautiful and memorable evening.
Joshua’s birthday turned out to be more than he had ever imagined. His determination, kindness, and desire to include his friends from the orphanage resulted in a celebration that brought joy to everyone involved.
