Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in December 2018.
In a touching Christmas tale, Wayne Price, an Alabama bus driver, is making headlines for his unexpected act of kindness that embodies the true spirit of the season.
A decade ago, Price would not have predicted his role as a bus driver, having transitioned from full-time ministry in 2013. A friend, formerly a principal, convinced him to take on the role, aligning with his desire to work with young people.
“I was just amazed at how quick I fell in love with the kids,” Price shared, reflecting on his experiences driving elementary, middle, and high school students in Montevallo. Despite limited interaction time on the bus, Price recognizes the opportunity to influence and set an example for the students.
With a two-hour delay announced for Shelby County Schools due to adverse weather conditions, Price received a text message on a Tuesday morning. Aware that breakfast would not be served at Montevallo Elementary School during the delay, Price made a thoughtful decision.
When he stopped to get breakfast for himself, he spontaneously purchased 50 breakfast sandwiches, considering the students on his bus. He explained, “I am not rich. I am in full-time ministry. I am not rich, but you sit there and think about it, you take your family out to dinner, and you can drop $50 going out to dinner, and it was nothing more than bringing my family out to dinner.”
Montevallo Elementary fifth-grader Elizabeth Lopez expressed her surprise and gratitude, stating, “I am really thankful for having him as a bus driver, and he feels like a dad to me.”
Principal Dr. Allison Campbell praised Price and highlighted the community’s willingness to step in and help during times of need. She described Price as “an example and a testament to this community and the schools in Montevallo.”
In discussing his motivation, Price emphasized his belief in love and its reflection of Christ’s love. “Christmas is giving. Christmas is showing love. Christmas is esteeming others greater than yourself,” Price shared. His act, even if seemingly materialistic, aligns with the deeper purpose of Christmas.
As students received their sandwiches, Price had one simple request: that the wrappers not end up on the bus floor. In a heartwarming turn of events, the students respected his request, leaving the bus spotless.
In a world often filled with challenges, Wayne Price’s spontaneous gesture serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and the true meaning of Christmas, resonating with the spirit of giving and love.
