When A Humiliating Moment Becomes Unforgettable Kindness
By A Friend • September 26, 2025
I was at the store yesterday with my son trying to buy our groceries, it wasn't a lot just rice, oatmeal, apples and beans. At the last minute I told my son to grab a candy bar for himself. He hadn't gotten a treat in such a long time because things are really tight financially at the moment. He was silently looking at it so longingly and it was really nice seeing his face light up when I told him he could take it. Well when it was our turn to pay, my card got declined twice, I hadn't realized that a bill had gone through and put us in the negative.
It was really awkward and embarrassing with people watching and the cashier acting annoyed with me. I apologized to the cashier and we had to leave everything behind and left the store. I felt so defeated because things are already hard enough so it felt like we just can't catch a break and that was our last money. I also felt bad that my son had to witness that, I apologized to him about not being able to get his treat and he said it's okay daddy, I don't need it and it just broke my heart hearing him say that.
We had just gotten to the car when some guy who was behind us in the queue rushed towards us with his kids. He handed me the stuff that we left in the store including the candy bar and told me that he paid for everything and that he's been there before and that it gets better. I chocked back tears as I thanked him profusely, he said I shouldn't worry about it and they walked off. I couldn't help but bawl in the car before driving off because I was just so grateful for this stranger's kindness.
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Many readers told us they started writing down the small positives in their day, and this gratitude journal became a favorite. While others use these kindness cards for kids to help teach them compassion, empathy and encouragement.
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