In a heartwarming turn of events, a teacher in Winter Park received a thoughtful gift that reignited her appreciation for kindness. Stuart Bogue, after breaking her beloved sock monkey mug, received a mysterious package containing not one, but two identical replacements, prompting her to reflect on the impact of generosity in her life.
Bogue’s journey with the sock monkey mug began in 2020 when it was gifted to her by a first grader named Aiden. The mug, a playful reminder of Aiden’s artistic spirit, had become a cherished item, accompanying Bogue through countless mornings of lesson planning, afternoons of advocacy for a loved one with health challenges, and late nights balancing her teaching career with personal life.
When the mug shattered, it felt like a loss beyond just a favorite cup. Bogue shared her sorrow online, posting a photo of the broken mug alongside a coloring sheet she had once drawn to thank Aiden. Two weeks later, a small parcel arrived at her doorstep, sparking curiosity and excitement.
Inside, Bogue found not just a replacement mug, but a matching pair. She was filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude, questioning who could have orchestrated such a thoughtful gift. Friends and family denied any involvement, leaving Bogue to ponder the significance of the gesture.
Reflecting on the moment, Bogue likened it to a “Mrs. Claus moment,” recognizing the quiet yet powerful impact of women in her life. From her grade-school teacher who nurtured her sensitivity to the principal who took a chance on her during her graduate studies at UCF, Bogue acknowledged the unseen support that has shaped her journey.
Bogue’s therapist played a crucial role in helping her recognize a toxic work environment, empowering her to transition into supporting homeschool students and eventually becoming a Public Guardian. These experiences underscored the importance of kindness and support in fostering community resilience.
She noted that childlike wonder often diminishes with age, but her recent experience reaffirmed that love and generosity remain prevalent. Bogue emphasized that these qualities are essential to holding communities together, even in a world that can seem skeptical.
The logistics of how a pair of mugs was sent from another state to her doorstep mattered less than the intention behind the gift. Bogue’s reflection on the act of quiet generosity serves as a reminder of the power of community support and the presence of “Mrs. Claus” in everyday life.
As Bogue continues her work in education and advocacy, she carries with her the lessons learned from Aiden and the many women who have impacted her life. In a world where acts of kindness can sometimes feel rare, Bogue’s story is a celebration of the magic that exists in small, thoughtful gestures.
In closing, she expressed her gratitude not only to Aiden but also to the unseen forces that nurture and uplift, stating, “Yes, Virginia — and yes, Aiden — there’s also Mrs. Claus. And thank God for her.”
