Have you ever had a moment in time that just seemed to come out of the blue but it was exactly what you needed? It is a moment that can inspire us to do greater things. After all, we are not the only ones that find ourselves in need and there are going to be times when we can actually come to the rescue of someone else. That was what happened in this story. Although we can’t verify that it is true, we can tell you that there are special people out there that fit into this mold very well.
(I’m stocking a shelf. I notice a customer with her five-year-old daughter. They both look like they’ve been through a hard time.)
Little Girl: Mama, I’m hungry.
(The mother looks near tears.)
Mother: I know baby; I’m sorry. Mommy only has $5, so we have to find food that will stretch until next week when mommy gets paid.
Little Girl: Okay.
(I see another customer with a baby in a cart walk up to the woman.)
Another Customer: Excuse me, I couldn’t help but overhear you. I don’t mean to put you on the spot, but I’d like to help you.
(The other customer holds out a $20 bill. The mother starts to cry.)
Mother: You don’t even know me, and you’re trying to help me. My husband walked out. I work a minimum wage job, and it has just been so hard. You’re the first person who has shown me such kindness in a long time, and you’re a stranger to me.
Another Customer: I’m someone who thinks the world would work a bit better if people paid it forward a little more. I might not know you, but I know you’ve been dealt a bad hand. When was the last time you ate? I’m sure you’re making sure your daughter eats, but when was the last time you did?
Mother: How did you…
Another Customer: Because you’re a mother.
Mother: I thank you so much! This will really help. Are you sure?
Another Customer: I’m positive. You know you can get some of the stuff here 2 for 1, so that can help.
Mother: Thank you, thank you so much! I’ll find a way to pay you back.
Another Customer: There’s no need to do that. I hope things get better for you, and when they do, you can pay it forward.
Mother: Thank you so much.
(I’m called to the front, so I don’t see the rest of the exchange. The mother and daughter come through my lane with a cart full of food.)
Little Girl: Mommy, was that lady an angel?
Mother: Yes baby, she was.
(Their total comes to just under the 25 dollars the mother had. I relate the story to my manager. When the other customer comes up with her daughter, my manager has a gift card for $20 waiting for her. That customer comes in every month or so, and we all refer to her as the angel.)
