Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Running On Empty


--by jacqueline, posted Dec 30, 2007
The other night I almost ran my car out of petrol so I took the next exit off the highway to pull into the nearest petrol station.  I only had $20 cash on me. 

As I pulled in, hadn't even turned the car off, there was a young man walking towards the car next to me.  He spoke with the driver of the car and the driver shook her head "No" and then he approached my car.  Usually I would be cautious and let my "He looks shady and possibly a con" opinions control my actions - but not tonight.  I put aside my opinions and listened to him openly.  It turns out that he was traveling to a funeral, another 100kms away, and needed some money for petrol.

He was in a sort of a stunned silence, when I said, "Sure."  Then I added, "But there's one condition."   With a vibrant energy, he replied, “Anything, I will do anything.  I can pay you back if that’s what you want!” 

I said, “It is not your money or your time that I want.  I just want you to pay-it-forward”.   I gave him the only cash I had on me and a smile card.    As he read the card, he had the biggest smile on his face and was moved by my generosity.  He continued to thank me profusely and promised to pay-it-forward.

Whether I saved his day or I was conned by the young man… it doesn’t really matter to me, as long as I made a difference in his life by showing there are people in the world with genuine hearts filled with unconditional love.

As members of this website, that’s what WE are creating together.  Keep it up!  I love this website and I love you all!  Mwah!
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Readers Comments

AURELIA wrote: Jacqueline! I am so Proud of you for thinking the situation over and doing what felt right to you. This website does make us think and be kind. You followed your heart and that's all that matters to our Heavenly Father. Here's a Kiss back at ya...MWAH! ~Aurelia
hugsnkisses wrote: im glad u helped him out but did u ever getr any help?
jacqueline wrote: LOL, I took my chances driving home on empty (knowing money was available to me at home) then I remembered as I was driving that my ATM card was in my handbag - somewhere beneath the paper and makeup and phone and businses cards and smile cards and camera...you get the picture lol! So, I pulled into the next petrol station to fill up. Phew! Someone, was looking after me too!
bibirose wrote: Your petrol tank may have been near empty but I bet you were flying high as you decided to help a mate in trouble. Not too many of us Ozzies would leave a body stranded. God bless you heaps,shalom from Bibirose.
lOVEBUG wrote: I sure like your attitude, I don't really care about being conned, it is one less thing to worry about. Peace to you.
EePee wrote: THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for sharing such a inspiring experience. Isn't it wonderful to have that high from making someone happy? If only everyone would come to this mindset, what a great world we would have.
The very best to you & everyone!
E
speedi wrote: How kind and thoughtful you are,,,Thank you for caring enough to at least listen to his story and then being able to act upon it was a Blessing in and of itself..
Thank you!
Amy wrote: I think that is wonderful that you gave with out question. I have been known to do that several times (to my husbands dismay) and each time it makes me feel really good. I try to give food or clothing when I can, but sometimes cash is the only option.
These random acts of kindess do the giver as much or more good then often times the reciever. Kudos to you.
miamaia wrote: That was so nice of you,isnt it terrible the ones who only look to use someone,it makes it hard on people who really need it.
sweetp wrote: i have a feeling you were not conned... his sincerity is my hint. well, thanks for paying it forward, yourself!!

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