Pay It Forward

A few evenings ago Scott and I were making one of our regular trips to the grocery store. While driving we passed a couple sitting at a bus stop. Something about the couple had us thinking they weren't waiting for a bus. Their attire seemed a bit ragged, as if it hadn't been washed in awhile. There was a shopping cart near them, filled to the brim with what looked like personal belongings. It seemed as if this couple was homeless, and possibly in need of a little help.

As Scott and I pulled into the grocery store we decided that not only would we buy the items needed on our list, we'd pick something up for the couple. Neither Scott nor I had ever done this... Buy food for people we didn't know. What if they didn't like what we bought? What if they had allergies? But, what if they were really hungry... We decided on what most would consider a small lunch: a deli sandwich, an apple, and a bottle of water, each. Nothing extravagant, but enough to fill up on.

After our purchase we made our way to the couple. Each of us a little apprehensive. What if they didn't need our help? What if they were really just waiting for the bus? What if we offended them? Something kept prodding me along; what if they were really hungry...

Scott did the talking, something along the lines of, "We're not sure if you could use this, but we thought you may like this." The man looked at us with bright eyes, and gratefully answered "Yes! Of course." The woman was quiet but smiled and nodded. As we turned to walk away we offered a "God bless.".

The thought often crosses my mind that maybe they didn't need our help. And, if they didn't, perhaps one day they'll pay it forward...