Stories of Kindness from Around the World

The Gift of a $1 Car


--by downeyek, posted May 1, 2008

I am serving in Americorps VISTA in Cheyenne. Although the work has been challenging, the rewards are immeasurable. The weather in Cheyenne has proved to be adventurous! Although the fact that I walk everywhere has proven to be excellent exercise, for my body as well as my mind, I began to realize that I needed another form of transportation for the winter.

My boyfriend Mike knew of this desire and he researched some local sites for inexpensive vehicles. The second he sent me information about a 1978 Ford Fairmont, I just knew this car was meant to be! I began my communications with the owner, a man named Dale Meyer. I found out that the car was originally purchased by his grandfather and was in pretty good condition. He and his two siblings had actually learned to drive using this car.

We settled on a price of $400, and decided on a time for a test drive. The day before the test drive, I received a phone call from Dale. He seemed a little nervous, but also excited. He asked simply, "You really would like this car, wouldn't you?" I responded enthusiastically and he said, "How about I give it to you for a dollar?" I was completely speechless.

I picked up my new Fairmont last night. Hugging Dale several times, my friend Meg snapped pictures. Dale walked me around the car, explaining its bumps and nicks. At times as he told me stories of the car it seemed he was losing an old friend. As I was pulling out of the drive way, he stopped me to say, "don't forget to pass this kindness on." It was truly a perfect end. Never underestimate the kindness of strangers.

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Readers Comments

Dale Meyer wrote: I'm touched that you shared our story. I think you "paid it forward" by writing this story.
LoveandLight1111 wrote: Thanks for sharing. When my nephew got his license I was going to trade my car in but then realized that he should have it for free. Until this day, I have never been more happier to see my nephew driving the car I gave him :) then he passed it on to his dad. Sending you love and light!
Beth wrote: Wow, that is an amazing story. I would have been so shocked if somebody had done something so kind to me! I wonder if somebody did something like that for him and thats what gave him the idea. I love chains of kindness =)
firecrystals wrote: I hope you pass on this kindness to others too.
BedBug wrote: Be sure and get back to us with chapter ii. I'm interested to hear how you have been inspired to pass it on.
cinnamonhead wrote: it's good to know people pay it forward, i'm glad it worked out so well.
Aurelia wrote: I love this story. Generosity like that doesn't come along often...or maybe it DOES and we just don't hear of it. I am sure you will pay if forward many times over. I hope you have many happy days of travel in your new/used Fairmont! :0) ~Aurelia
akbj wrote: Wonderful story. Thanks for sharing it.
irongrace wrote: awesome story thanks for writing.
jack wrote: I am a chinese boy,and liking reading good stories. who can tell me some websets that offering good stories? thanks! thank you!thank you!!!!!!

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