the idea for r.a.o.k. #8 popped into my head early wednesday morning, out of the blue green and red! [->a little christmas humour, there!...].
as you’ll recall, i was in toronto on wednesday for aunti day. the date of 12-12-12 was supposed to be a lucky day; if i did a r.a.o.k., someone would have a nice day!
outside the local shoppers drug mart store, there is usually a homeless man (not always the same person) looking for a handout. these men are not aggressive or talkative, they just stand patiently by the entrance to the store.
here was my idea:
if a destitute person was outside of shoppers on this wednesday (the random part of my plan), i would give them an early christmas gift of a shoppers gift card. i liked the idea of buying a shoppers drug mart gift card because you can get everything at shoppers from groceries to socks to hygiene items.
as i approached the shoppers, i saw that there was indeed a man standing outside. you get to recognize “the regulars,” but i do not recall seeing this young man in the past.
i went into shoppers…
the sunny sky matched my cheery heart!
…and purchased a $25 gift card:
a festive selection!
i felt a bit nervous as i exited the store!
i approached the young man and handed him the gift card: “i hope you have a safe christmas. all the best to you,” i said.
the young man was so polite as he thanked me.
i DID request permission to take this photo!
the young fellow asked me my name, and in the spirit of r.a.o.k. #8, i told him it was kiki. he said his name was john.
i wished him the best, one last time, he wished me a very nice day, and i went on my way…with a warm heart.
~for it is in giving that we receive.~
st francis of assisi
Comments
What a great gift! My co-worker and I “adopted” a 4 mos old baby girl and her mother for Christmas. It was fun shopping for someone else and they got some nice things they would not otherwise have gotten.
oh, that is a GREAT christmas act of kindness, johanna! way to go and what a generous and nice thing to do. the baby girl would have special meaning, given your recent grandson’s arrival! thanks for sharing your example.
What a wonderful gesture, Cathy! Also a wise thing to give him, since the store has so many options for him. You’re such a sweetie.
thanks, fran!
I love that you recognize the regulars. I like to keep watch on the regulars myself. Sound like you made someone hard on their luck very happy.
thanks for your comment, samantha! yes, unfortunately, you do see the same faces, don’t you…we would like to help *everyone,* but that is not an option…so we do what we can, right? enjoy your weekend!
So sweet kiki. Thanks for the smile.
oh, thank you, stephanie. i hope you are having an all-chistmas, all the time type weekend!
What a lovely thing to do.
thanks, zo – i hope you have a nice weekend!
You are so awesome Cath! Way to go
aw, thanks, stacie! have a great weekend!
Very generous and kind of you!
thanks, tricia!
What a kind and generous act. Mr. Cardinal approves!
oh, thanks, mom!! i would not have been surprised to see a cardinal fly by in TO!…
I think the act was nice but the picture was sort of exploitive. It did not sit well with me. My opinion.
and you are entitled to your opinion. as i said, i did ask permission and i did not show personal details. my opinion.
my sweet “kiki” your generosity has changed what began as a very rushed, harried day into a smile and blessing. Why does your r.a.o.k. not surprise me? I am blest to know you, even from afar. We truly are kindred spirits.The act of giving always enriches the giver, as you have proven in your post. Much love and many hugs to a wonderful, generous girl!
ele, thank you for your very kind comment – and hugs right back to you, soul sister! i hope you have a wonderful friday and that your day calms down a little. i am so glad to *know* you and fran, too!
I LOVE THIS.
That is all.
Have a wonderful Friday.
oh, you are sweet! thanks! happy friday to you, too!