One of the most delightful aspects of childhood is spending time with friends. However, friendships are more than just fun; they give kids a sense of belonging, boost their self-esteem, and help them develop essential social skills.
Unfortunately, it’s heartbreaking when children are excluded and bullied by their peers.
In Amarillo, Texas, a young boy named Shayden was so eager to make friends that he went door to door looking for kids his age. He knocked on Brennan and Angel Ray's door, and the doorbell camera captured their interaction.
Shayden asked Brennan through the doorbell camera if he knew any kids around 11 or 12 because he needed some friends. Brennan had to inform Shayden that they had no kids his age and suggested he try another house on the block. Shayden then confessed, “Well, um, they’re not my friends anymore because they’re bullies to me.”
Upon learning that the Ray family only had a 2-year-old daughter, Shayden remarked, “They're just like the cutest things I have ever known.”
Watching Shayden go door-to-door searching for friends was a formidable sight for many.
TikTok user Krive’s girlfriend commented, “He’s like my younger brother. I hope he finds true friends and stops being bullied. No one should be bullied.” Another user, Shayne Moss, said, “This breaks my heart. I was bullied all through school and was miserable. I hope life gets better for him.”
The video went viral, with over 67 million views. The Rays started a GoFundMe campaign to help Shayden and his family, aiming to buy him a gaming system, school clothes, and amusement park tickets. They wrote, “100% of donations will go directly to Shayden and his family. We hope to raise enough for a family trip and continue showing kindness while raising awareness for bullying and suicide prevention!”
The Ray family later visited Shayden’s family and shared a follow-up video showing them exploring Shayden’s rock collection and watching his favorite funny videos online. “We finally got to meet Shayden! He had the same joyful energy in person as on the doorbell camera,” they shared on TikTok.
While it's sad that Shayden had to go to such lengths to find a friend, it's heartwarming to see how the community responded, bringing joy to Shayden and his family. Despite his current challenges in making friends, the overwhelming support he has received should reassure him that he is loved and that many wonderful people are eager to meet him.