Everyone knows it’s important to keep a promise, but it’s not every day that you see one this sweet.
In a heartwarming tale of friendship and inclusion, Ben Moser, a high school quarterback, kept his promise to a girl named Mary, who has Down syndrome.
What’s even more incredible is that the promise was made seven years before.
Ben and Mary’s friendship blossomed in fourth grade.
Ben, reflecting on those days, fondly remembered Mary as “really cool,” and he always kept an eye out for her.
Their teacher, Tracey Spogli, told PennLive:
“If she was looking like she wasn’t having fun, he would go over and talk to her. He would pull her in to what ever activity they were doing. He just always watched out for her.”
Their friendship proved that differences do not hinder genuine connections.
It was during a conversation with his mother at the end of that school year that Ben’s compassionate nature shone through.
After watching his cousin’s prom walk, Ben made a vow to invite Mary to prom when they were in high school.
His mom explained:
“…on the way home, he said ‘Mom, do kids like Mary go to prom?’ and I said ‘Sure, honey, if someone asks them. Why do you ask?’ [and he said] ‘Well, you know what? I’m gonna take Mary to prom.’”
This innocent yet profound promise marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
The two friends eventually went down separate roads.
As time passed, Ben and Mary found themselves in different high schools – Ben at Susquehanna and Mary at Central Dauphin, where her father taught math.
Despite the distance and their busy lives, with Mary serving as the equipment manager for her school’s football team and Ben as his school’s quarterback, their early bond remained intact.
True to his word, Ben didn’t forget his promise.
Even though they were at rival schools and Mary had already made plans for her prom, Ben was determined to make his childhood vow a reality.
He humorously brushed off any awkwardness about attending a prom at a rival school, focusing instead on the joy of fulfilling his promise.
The moment Ben asked Mary to prom was as touching as it was unexpected.
Armed with balloons spelling out “prom,” Ben surprised Mary at her home.
Mary, who had planned to attend with friends, was delighted by Ben’s invitation, showcasing the enduring strength of their friendship.
On the night of the prom, Ben and Mary, dressed in coordinating outfits, were the epitome of elegance and joy.
Their parents and fourth-grade teacher, witnessing this beautiful fulfillment of a seven-year-old promise, couldn’t help but feel emotional.
Ben’s mother, in particular, shared her heartfelt feelings on social media, expressing gratitude to their former teacher for her lasting impact on their lives.
In her Facebook post, she wrote:
“Today with joyful tears in my eyes and down my face I watched a promise made, 7 years ago, to a beautiful girl fulfilled. The many loved ones and family and friends that wanted to share in this beautiful story made it even better.”
The prom night was undoubtedly unforgettable for both Ben and Mary.
As a popular quarterback, Ben could have chosen anyone as his date, but his decision to go with Mary was even sweeter.
Their story, captured in charming prom photos and a pre-dance interview, is an inspiring reminder of the beauty of inclusivity and loyalty.
Watch the video below to meet this incredible pair of friends on their way to prom!
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