You’re sitting at a café when a stranger approaches you. This person asks what your name is, and, for some reason, you reply. The stranger nods, “I’ve been looking for you.” What happens next?
I looked around the room to confirm the stranger was addressing me as he entered the room. There was nobody else, so I smiled and replied.
“How can I help you? Are you looking for me personally?”
“Yes, I have been following you for the last few months and wanted to give you some feedback” said the stranger.
“Okay.” I was curious but not concerned as the tone of the strangers voice was soft, gentle and affirming.
“I’m Sam. What would you like to tell me?”
“The reason I have been following you is several months ago you grabbed my mother and pulled her from the path of an oncoming bus, probably saving her life.”
“I remember. She is a sweet old lady. How is she going? My actions weren’t special, I only did what anyone else would have done in the circumstances.”
“I disagree,” said the stranger. “It wasn’t an isolated case was it?”
“No” I replied. “My New Years resolution has been to pay kindness forward. To lookout everyday for situations where I can give help, support or guidance to anyone in need.”
“And I am here to tell you that you have been doing an excellent job. My mother pointed you out after her incident as she knew who you were. Since then, I have seen you help many people from all walks of life.”
“Thanks! I enjoy seeing the gratitude and smiles on peoples faces after our connection.” I assured the stranger.
“I wanted to find you because my company wants to reward people like yourself. I will be starting an award in your name to be given monthly to people in our community who go out of their way to help others. You will be the initial recipient and we will donate $500 to the charity of your choice. You will receive a thank you certificate acknowledging your recognition.”
“I wasn’t expecting any reward, although supporting my favourite charity is an excellent way to continue the pay it forward principal. Thank you. I am honoured and humbled.”
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