If you are a man, I’m sure you’ve reflected on the men who influenced your life. We automatically think of dads, of course, who have such profound and critical importance in not only the development of children, but continue to provide us with wisdom and role models as we age and face the challenges of life.

Las week I witnessed a small, almost unnoticeable incident that illustrated this for me again, and made me think a lot about it this past week.

I am homeschooling my autistic grandson for the third year. My husband is retired now, and often helps out, which has been great for the little guy. Last year when he was studying work, energy, levers, wedges, etc. in his science class, there was a lot of time in the garage using things like a hammer and nail, drill and screws, to illustrate the lessons.

Last week I took him to the track and playground for exercise. He used to love the playground, and was adventurous, but at nine, he’s decided he’s too old. I told him he has to play, or do exercise videos. Very reluctantly, he decided to put minimal effort into the climbing wall, swings, ladders, and other equipment there. My encouragement had no influence.

The next day, my husband was able to come with us. The grandson was a different boy, simply due to the presence of his grandfather. He threw himself into things, and even attempted crossing the hand over hand bars, which he was unable to do, but made a few swings. My husband explained to him that he would easily be able to do this, and other activities, by the end of the year.

I suspect several things happened here. Just the presence of a strong, respected man made Conner feel safe. Perhaps he also felt it important to make an effort to impress his grandfather, or be more like him. And undeniably, as my husband walked beside him and encouraged him to step off the safe platform and swing out into the air, he needed the security of a strong man he trusted, not holding him, but just there.

We fight battles politically, economically, and using our influence to change minds. But this is how we win.

As you go about your day, a simple action like this will change the world more than all the other things. Be there for a kid, whenever you can.