When a parent leaves for deployment, it can be really hard on the children that they leave behind. Children look to their parents for support and guidance. Parents are their role models and they try their best to be just like them.

When Brian’s dad left, he was lost without him. Luckily, he found someone who was willing to step into the role and help fill the void that was left behind by his dad. In his time of need, Brian turned to his neighbor for help.

Molly and Dean Cravens are perfect neighbors. They keep their lawn nice and they don’t cause a fuss. One day Dean was working in his yard with the hedge trimmers and he heard the doorbell ring. Standing outside the door was Brian asking if he could help with the yard work.

It was what Brian used to help his dad do, and he missed doing “dad stuff” with his dad. The neighbor happily agreed and welcomed the little boy into his home. Now Brian shows up nearly every day to help his neighbor do the things that he used to do with his dad.

He helps Dean clean up the yard and likes to hand Dean tools when he’s working. Dean’s time with Brian has really helped him deal with the struggle of missing his own dad. The two don’t just do chores together though.

They have bonded and like to spend time playing and doing other things together too. Brian and Dean like to golf, play basketball, and just hang out and enjoy the great outdoors.

The two are a perfect fit for each other because Dean doesn’t have a son of his own. He has three daughters, but no son and has loved getting the chance to do “dad stuff” with a boy. Plus it warms his heart to be able to be there for Brian while he’s dealing with his dad being gone.

Molly recently shared a post about the friendship the neighbors have formed. It is easy to see why it has been liked and shared thousands of times. Thank goodness for men like Dean who are willing to step up and help little boys like Brian.

What a heartwarming story! This just melts my heart. Be sure to share this adorable story with your family and friends. We all could use a neighbor like this.