Today we headed to Scottsdale for sister's birthday to do a little shopping. We headed out to make it to a few stores and hitting up Sprinkles cupcake store before heading back.
As we walked out of the cupcake store we were approached by a homeless man on a bicycle. As I began hearing his story, I immediately turned off my ears and began fidgeting around on my phone thinking that my mom and sister would do the same. This was not the case. I stood there for a moment more to realize that my mom had been intently listening to this man. I was taken back at first but when I listened to their conversation. I looked up to that man on the bike. He had tanned, leathery skin, long greyish hair, and you could tell his clothes needed a good washing. He didn't ask for money, in fact, all he wanted was information about a church that would be able to help him and his wife who had no where to go. I watched my mom and her actions will never be erased from my memory. She opened up her purse, took out a $20 and extended her arm in his direction. His response probably surprised me even more so than my mom's. He immediately responded, "Oh, no I can't take that. I wasn't expecting any money." Her big, green eyes welled up with tears as she pushed the money toward him once again. She responded, "I know, I want to give this to you." The man reached his hand out and took the money and replied, "What is your name?" "Linda," she responded. "I'm Patrick. I sure am glad I was guided toward you. Thank you, Linda."
With that, my mom turned around and headed toward the car. Tears streamed down her cheeks. This, is a kind, valiant woman. I cannot express to you the example I have for a mother. Someday I will try to explain to my children how amazing of a mom she was, is, and has been to me. For this, I am grateful and proud to be raised by a woman of kindness.
