I was in line at Trader Joe's and the young woman in front of me had her card declined, she embarrassedly handed the cashier another card, which was also declined and then a final card that was approved for just $5.47. She asked the cashier to cancel the transaction. Cashier motions for manager. I smile and offer to pay the balance, which was $20 something dollars. Woman is very thankful, I tell her to pay it forward someday, cashier is happy.

On my way out the manager hands me a bouquet of mixed flowers. He doesn't say anything, just holds the flowers out to me.

I see he is overcome with emotion. I suspect if he opened his mouth he would start to cry. I accept the flowers with thanks and walk out feeling that, for just a few moments, the world has become a better place.