The Shopkeeper’s Tale

Going about my errands in town last week, I popped into one of my favorite shops. I was intent on finding care package items for my granddaughter and was sure I would find most of what I wanted there: some necessities and some silly stuff to power her through mid-term exams. For once, I had nothing pressing me for time, which made it extra enjoyable just to wander, pick something up, put it down, pick up another gizmo and thus gather a bagful of goodies. As I was browsing in the sweet treats section, I saw a small sign, humorously and gently worded, reminding small hands to pay for their selections before leaving. I must have smiled-out-loud as I read it since the shopkeeper appeared beside me, saying that it was only the rare child that needed a reminder; but the reason it had been posted was this:

Once there was a young child who came to the shop to buy some penny candy, picking up, putting back and finally selecting one. It happened that, as the candy disappeared up the child’s sleeve, the shopkeeper had been looking, but said nothing as the child left the shop. The shopkeeper recognized the small offender, whose mother was a friend. The mother was called later that day, not to accuse but simply to report the incident, believing that the mother would want to know.

Weeks, maybe a month or more went by, the event mostly forgotten. Then one day, a letter arrived in the shop.

     I knew it was wrong to take the candy and I feel bad about what I did. I want you to know that I am very sorry. I had gotten in with a group of kids who were a bad influence on me. Because you called my mother and didn’t scold me or arrest me, I have thought a lot about that. I have learned a lot since then. Your phone call made me realize that I want to be better person from now on.

A brief phone call, a few words voiced not in anger but with kindness. Sometimes that’s all it takes to turn a life around. A simple gesture, an outstretched hand or just a smile can make a world of difference. Unlike the shopkeeper, we may never know what happened afterwards. What you tossed off as a casual remark, when I offered a cup of tea, what any of us do or say in passing could turn the corner for someone else.

I believe there are lots of stories like the shopkeeper’s tale. I suspect that you too have lived them, as giver and as recipient of the gift. Now, more than ever, is the time to keep creating more, and more, and more.

What story will you create today?