Photo: Johnna Jablonski via ABC News
Watching video news coverage of an officer being crushed by an angry mob breaking into the U.S. Capitol left 10-year-old Emma Jablonski terrified and confused. "She just started crying and started asking, "Why is this happening? Why is this happening to him?'" her mother, Johnna Jablonski, said. Emma said she was confused and wondered "Why are they hurting him when he's just doing his job?" When Jablonski sat down with Emma to help her sort through what she witnessed and what she was feeling, they decided that writing a letter might help. Emma's mother felt that "finding a positive outlet for her to be able to express her opinion and know she has a voice was really important." Jablonski went on to say, "Kindness truly wins over hate." When Emma completed her letter, her mom turned to social media for help in figuring out how to get Emma's letter to the injured officer. Jablonski reached out on Twitter and in short order received a reply from the Washington, D.C., Police Department expressing gratitude for Emma's concern and kindness and saying they would "DM" the mom and child the officer's identity and an address. Within a week, Emma's letter, along with a care package that included a stuffed animal, were on their way to Officer Daniel Hodges. "I was so happy he was okay," Emma said. Her concern, expressed through a small act of kindness, taught her that she too has a voice and can make a difference. "I only thought people who were recognized and were more, like, famous could have their voice be heard," Emma said, "but no, a child from Montana can do that, too."
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