I watched a young woman struggling at the check out line. In one are she cradled her infant son, and in the other she struggled to count out change.

“I know it’s in here,” she offered apologetically. Though, as she rummaged through the final depths of her purse, I could tell that she already knew.

When I was a young mother, I struggled, too. And, there were days, my loves – where there was barely enough to feed my then infant son. Oh, how I used to envy those who could make their purchase without consequence; who didn’t have to perform continuous calculations in their head.

I remember once standing just as she did, already knowing but wishing to conceal my shame.

“Hey, you dropped something,” an old once called out from behind. “You should be a little more careful with your money,” he winked.

As I looked down, I could see his ‘gift’ literally laying at my feet — a half folded twenty dollar bill.

“Well, look at that,” he smiled. “It was there all along.” And then he whispered, “That feeling in your heart right now? Make sure you share it with others.”

I’ve thought of him often throughout the years, for on that day he shared so much more than the gift itself.

He taught me the immeasurable value a simple kindness held.

He taught me that even the smallest of gestures could prove everlasting.

“Is that yours,” I asked, as I dropped a half folded twenty to the floor. She looked at me at first with disbelief, then relief.

“Remember this moment,” I whispered in return. “And, promise me you’ll always try to carry it forward.”

For who are we if we can not serve another?

In peace, my loves…

Namaste ❤️