Brighten Your Day

Read This Elderly Woman's Heartfelt Letter After Receiving A Free Meal

January 14, 2025

Christmas is often a time for family gatherings, laughter, and shared meals. But for some, it’s a reminder of loss and solitude.

This year, a restaurant in Springfield, Missouri, turned a simple gesture into a heartwarming story that touched thousands.

Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes

Mike Jalili, owner of Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes, opened his doors on Christmas Day to anyone in need, offering a free meal and a warm welcome.

"If you're in need, come and enjoy a burger on us," the restaurant wrote on Facebook. "All we ask is that you bring your hearts so we can celebrate Christmas together."

Among the guests was a 76-year-old woman who arrived with a dear friend after hearing about the offer. For her, the meal was more than just a burger—it was a lifeline during a time of deep loneliness.

Days later, the restaurant staff received a handwritten letter that left them in tears:

"A very heartfelt thank you for the kindness of you all!

It would have been a very boring Christmas for me as I have no family left. I never thought of this years ago, but being the youngest in my family, I have seen everyone leave this Earth before me.

Living on Social Security has left me in a position to downsize to renting a room and sharing a house... the young people know what I mean. I feel like I'm in college again! :)

A dear friend heard about the offer of the free meal and invited me out for ‘Christmas lunch.’ Great idea since I was down to $1!

The meal was wonderful as were the staff. Thank you again for making it a day to remember! Blessings."

Mike shared her letter on Facebook, hoping to find her and learn more about her incredible outlook on life. Two weeks later, he posted an update that brought the story full circle.

"I spoke with the woman who wrote the letter," Mike wrote. "She’s 76 years old and hasn’t had a TV in 20 years. As remarkable as her letter was, she’s even more beautiful in person."

It turns out, this woman who described herself as alone has spent much of her life giving to others.

"She dedicated about eight years of her life to rescuing dogs, even buying a van to travel as far as New York City to save puppies and dogs, bringing them to no-kill shelters," he wrote. "She also spent years helping veterans and shared with me, 'You wouldn’t believe what they go through'."

Despite her losses, her spirit remains unbroken.

"She has no remaining family or close friends, as they’ve all passed away, but her outlook remains inspiring. She told me, 'I am blessed. I’m healthy, and I thank God every day. Tonight, I’m going outside to make snow angels'.

The mysterious woman we’ve been searching for may truly be an angel. I can’t wait to meet her."