Thursday, December 3, 2009

Human Interest Story

You may have already heard this on the news, but if not, it is a heart warming story about a shop owner in New York, who last May was surprised by a would be robber, wielding a baseball bat as he ordered the man to give him money from the register.  Instead of the shop owner handing the money over as he had been told to do, he pulled out a weapon of his own.  A pistol!  The robber dropped to his knees, begging for his life, and tearfully told the shop keeper that he was desperate, out of work, his family was hungry and that he only wanted food to feed his family.  The shop owner then did an extraordinary thing.  He took 40.00 dollars out of the register, and gave it to the man, along with a loaf of bread, and after saying a blessing on him, sent the man on his way.  No one was hurt, and time went along as normal.  Then, 7 months later, the shop owner received a letter in the mail.  It was from this would be robber, and it told of how this incident several months earlier changed, and quite possibly, saved his life.  He said he now had a good paying job, had another child on the way, and he was forever grateful for the act of kindness the shop keeper bestowed upon him.  Inside the envelope was 50.00 dollars cash.  40.00 to repay the original debt, and 10.00 for the interest.  
This Christmas, see if you can make a small difference in someone's life who is less fortunate than you.  It doesn't have to be a big thing.  Pay for the order of the car in line behind you, just because.   Bring a hot cup of coffee to someone cold.  Take out your neighbors trash cans who can no longer get around with ease.  
I loved this story in a day where all around us, in the news, we hear sad things.   The world IS a good place.  And there ARE good people.  Look around...you will see.

11 comments:

Kristi said...

I've heard this story, and it warms my heart. There are good people like you said, sometimes they are just hard to find. I think you've inspired me to do something nice for someone today! Good post!

Maryrose said...

Kris,
Love this post. I would love to "BELIEVE", especially since this is the season to believe, that there is more good than evil in this crazy world of ours.

Maybe we can have goodness and kindness in our own backyards if we take your suggestion. After going to the Servants Heart tea on Tuesday night it was brought to my attention that women in a safe house took enormous pleasure and comfort in a simple set of sheets. Imagine, having no home and being afraid for the safety of yourself and your children. We are truly blessed and should share our blessings. Thanks Kris for this most inspiring post.

Lauri said...

That really was a heart warming story. I've not heard it and it is a good reminder of how simple acts can change lives.

Anita Lasher said...

Kris,
I just heard that same story! You are right there are people that do, do the right thing we just never hear about them. It is so nice to hear a story like this. Also, thanks for the tip on the table runners. I went to the dollar store and picked up a couple of them. Who knew? I guess you did ! XO,
Anita

Erika Johnson said...

Ahh this is a nice & inspiring post mom. I love the idea of a small token of kindness. Good ideas too I will definately do one or two...

Pam said...

Great post Kris - it gave me chills.

Genn said...

I have not heard this story either. What a neat thing. Thanks for sharing, and making me think.

It's true that the world is a good place, not just bad. I like the saying "wherever you go, there you are", because I think people don't always realize that you see what you want to see sometimes.

Debbie said...

What a neat story...I LOVE to hear things like that. And you are soo right. We need to be aware of all of those who suffer and are less fortunate..there is so much we can do. I hate how the media usually tells only the bad side of people you seldom hear stories like this. I hadn't heard this, so thanks for sharing it.

deb said...

Great story...loved it!

everyday katie said...

I haven't heard that story. Very sweet.

Kelly said...

I didn't hear this story either. What a great thing that shop owner did. Definitely reminds you of the true meaning behind this time of year.