This morning started like any other for Michael, who was barely awake as he opened the store. Then a nervous customer walked in, heading straight for a mint chocolate bar. When Michael told him he couldn’t break a $100 bill, the man became visibly distressed, explaining, “It’s for my pregnant wife. She has cravings, and I can’t go home empty-handed.”
Understanding the urgency, Michael let the man take the chocolate bar, saying, “You can pay me later.” The grateful customer left but returned later, calmer, to repay Michael. He handed him a gift from his wife: two knitted duck keychains. “She wanted you to have this,” he said, thankful for the small act of kindness.
Michael was touched by the gesture, promising to share the keychains with his kids. The encounter left him smiling, knowing he had helped someone in need. As the man left, Michael felt like he had been part of something meaningful.
English