Random Acts of Kindness
February 14th 2008 by D in Random Acts of KindnessSo today I went out and did something nuts to make myself feel good, and to help someone else out. I put myself at risk (life and limb) mind you, and picked up a bum off the street in my car. I took him to the mall and bought him some new clothes. Then we decided we would go have dinner. His name is Melvin by the way.
We went to PF Changs. I know, I know, but he wanted some good chinese food, and honestly, good chinese food is beyond me. So its what I first thought of. Melvin told me he used to own his own business. He had a house cleaning business, but he went under when one of his workers stole something from a clients house and he was held liable. He lost his credibility and his client base. Eventually his family, and his life.
So after buying him clothes, and dinner, I took him to the Ramada inn, and rented him a room for 2 weeks. He doesn’t do drugs or anything, and you can tell. He is just trying to get back on his feet. I gave him a nice sum of cash. $2000 actually. And told him to call me when he had his business going again.
I really felt for Melvin, and could tell he was a genuinely nice guy. He will make something of himself again, and when he does, I will let you guys know. Thanks for reading, and its good to be back!
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I think what you did was absolutely wonderful!! Most people do not realize that some homeless people did not choose to be in that position. Some of them actually were forced into that situation not because of poor lifestyle choices (drugs, alcohol, etc.), but because they were living paycheck to paycheck and lost their job or, like in this situation, lost everything because of a failed business. They are not looking for a handout but a hand up! They want to be recognized for what they can do not for what they are going through. I like how you gave him hope by anticipating his return as a successful businessman and did not do the usual “Why don’t you get a job?” ploy. That’s probably what he needed most in this world, knowing that someone actually cared for him and believed in him. And for that he will be blessed as well as you.
Okay, this is now the most wonderful and amazing thing I have ever read!! I’m so happy for you and for Melvin! I hope I can win the lottery some day, so I can do something like this. Someone should give you a freakin medal.
What you did was fantastic. True milk of human kindness. I am late to your blog. I came across it quite by accident whilst surfing the ‘net.
I live in London and am 44
Melvin sounds like a great person. What a lucky chap to have met you.
God bless you xxx
Ah man… you’re the man! =)