It isn’t always easy for the older generations to find examples of patriotism and respect within the children of the modern world, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist.

In fact, if this little boy from Santa Fe, Texas, is any indication of the devotion the younger generations feel, there is nothing to worry about for the future of the United States. A kindergartner by the name of Royce Thompson was recently running late for school.

He was certain he would miss the start of the day, so he was literally running to be sure he wasn’t later than he had to be. However, something amazing happened just before Royce got inside the school building.

As he was reaching for the door, he heard the Pledge of Allegiance being recited by the rest of the school through the PA system. Instead of plowing through the doors and rushing to class, the young boy stopped where he was and joined in saying the Pledge of Allegiance, and he even took an additional moment after the pledge to say a quick prayer.

A vigilant parent caught the child on film during his pause, and the picture has since been shared many, many times across social media. It is quite clear that events like these are relatively rare, but they deserve national attention exactly like what this story is receiving.

This young man is leading by example, and he was clearly raised in a respectful household by responsible parents. Other children, and even many parents, could learn from Royce’s example.