We live on a short cul-de-sac in an established neighborhood and are the only residents on the street who haven’t lived here for more than 40 years. When we moved in four years ago everyone was quick to introduce themselves and welcome us to the community. Our two boys often play in neighbors’ yards and we all enjoy chatting from time to time.
One afternoon our youngest, Simon, who was about 6 at the time, decided he wanted to take one of our neighbors a gift. I suggested he draw him a picture but Simon insisted he take him the dollar that was his change from the book fair that day. I watched as he walked up to Mike, who was in his carport across the street, proudly extended his arm, and presented a wrinkled up one-dollar bill. Mike gestured for him to keep the money but Simon was insistent. Once Mike took the dollar Simon ran back home and didn’t speak a word about it.
Shortly after I received this text:
“Give that son of yours Simon a big hug. I had a brutally tough day. I was waxing my car just now and he walked over to me with a dollar to give me. I was shocked and told him he didn’t have to give it to me. He just smiled and kept reaching to me with a smile insisting I take it. I did because I didn’t want to hurt his feelings. I’ve never been happier to get a dollar and it brought a smile to my face today, just when I needed it!”
We never know when a gift we give will be a lifeline on a day when someone is in desperate need of encouragement and a smile. Never resist a nudge to be generous!
