OT, but a nice story

[Andrea]

When I left work tonight, I was in a horrible mood. My job has really jumped the shark and with this economy, I'm having no luck finding another. JRE dropping out has hit me pretty hard. And just to round things out, my dog is terminal.

I needed to get some blankets (related to my dog being sick, but no need for details - TMI), so I stopped by a thrift store near my office. I found three that were suitable, very cheap, and got in line.

A family got in line behind me - mom, dad and two of the cutest little boys about 5 or 6 years old. The little boys were being so good, just quietly waiting in line. I didn't know they were there until I happened to turn my head their way. Then they smiled and said "hi".

On the counter was a basket with bundles of Tootsie Pops all wrapped together like a bouquet. Spontaneously, I asked the clerk how much they were. They were only 99 cents.

Those Tootsie Pops were about the best 99 cents I ever spent. I bought a bouquet and turned around and handed them to the dad and said, "These are for your very well-behaved little boys." The dad didn't respond much, but the mom got a big grin and said "thanks." The little boys were all smiles. The mom gave the pops to one of them and said, "What do you say?" and the little boys thanked me. Then the mom started teaching them math by talking to them about how to divide them up. I remarked that if there was an odd number, they would have to give one to mom or dad and the mom said, "Yes!" mock-victoriously. The clerk said something to the boys about how wasn't that nice and they nodded enthusiastically. I said to the boys, "See, sometimes it pays off to be good." As I was walking away, the clerk was saying to the boys, "See, isn't that good? People always notice if you're bad, but sometimes they notice when you're good, too."

I walked out to my car actually feeling happy. I was thankful for whatever sparked my spontaneous little idea and for the fact I could afford the 99 cents. And I was so glad to have seen those two good little boys.

[asdjrocky]

1. I'm not sure how off topic this is Andrea-

It's really fitting with the latest, sad news. This time, not enough of the American people, through help with shiny things in the media, noticed that John Edwards was being good. Maybe the best.

You did a nice thing, and sorry about the dog. Chin up, the movement continues.

[Plucketeer]

2. I agree!

With Rocky. Sometimes a spur-of-the-moment thing like that can improve your day more than the recipient's. Of course, you both come away with a smile. GOOD for you, Andrea! :applause:

[Yael]

3. Thank you! You put a smile on that families face

for something they never asked for. That embodies what this country is SUPPOSED to be about -- not buying and selling people.

[Andrea]

4. I agree

I hope the moment stays with those little boys awhile. And I got the best benefit because it was such a happy time for me when I needed one.

[iris5426]

5. Why is it that as I read all of the replies, I'll get to yours and you say exactly what I

was thinking? Great minds think alike :)