A Woman of Kindness

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.