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40 People In This Online Group Confess The Most Selfless Thing They’ve Done That No One Knows About
The truth that we should help each other is as old as the world. However, in today’s context, as people have become more individualistic, there is nothing strange about the fact that humans are more interested in their own problems than showing compassion for others. One might even think that a lot of things that are shown, especially on social media, are staged, so if you see a video of a person doing a good deed, it doesn’t necessarily mean that their actions are genuine. But maybe things are not so pessimistic and there are still people who love to offer a helping hand to others?
One Reddit user asked, “What is something you’ve done purely out of the goodness of your heart, but have never told anyone?” and the thread was filled with stories of people helping others without wanting anything in return. In fact, some of them shared these situations with others for the first time in their lives, meaning that no one from their friends or family knew about them doing good.
The thread has 33.2k upvotes and 7k comments where people share and discuss these stories of helping others and changing someone’s life for the better.
More Info: Reddit
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#1
At the beginning of the pandemic, I was volunteering at a local pizza shop to distribute slices to kids who otherwise couldn't get fed because the schools were shutdown.
There was a woman with 3 kids that came by every few days to get slices. Turns out the father had died unexpectedly right before the pandemic started and they lost their house because of the slumlord they were renting from. The mother lost her job because she had no one to watch the kids. They were living in their minivan and things were bad for them.
They were so nice and grateful, but ashamed when they'd come by to get slices that I genuinely felt for them.
I had lost my job and got a pretty decent windfall of 2 months worth of unemployment and the CARES Act at once. My landlord had a few properties open and is a close friend, so I got in touch with him and we worked out me paying their security deposit and the first 2 months of rent and he'd cover their utilities.
I gave her his number and said he might be able to help and they moved in the next day. They've been there ever since and are doing extremely well now.
I was homeless at one point in my life, but didn't have children. I couldn't just stand idly by, especially because I had been given way more money than I even knew what to do with. With everything that was happening and uncertainty of what was coming, I figured that money needed to be used for good rather than my own selfish needs.
Neil Bidle 4 years ago
The most generous people are often those with only a little more than they need for themselves. Those with millions in cash and possessions rarely seem to be so altruistic
WildHoneyPie 4 years ago
If everyone could be a fraction as generous as this, the world would be a much better place.
Philly Bob Squires 4 years ago
You are a saint! If only the corporate billionaires felt this way!
pinkk-sugar 4 years ago
It makes me feel better knowing there are people like this still out there
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, good for you and I hope that things get better for that dear lady, her children, and you.
RELATED:
#2
Whenever I see s cashier having a tough day, I always look at the candy selection, if there is one, and look stumped as to what to get. I ask them "I can't decide. What's your favorite?" I buy whatever they say, then hand it to them after the sale and tell them they're doing a great job and to have a great day. It perks them up every single time.
It's my little thing.
Jenny Cotter 4 years ago
That will only work if you give them the receipt otherwise they will be accused of stealing! I I have worked in retail.
Christi Stewart 4 years ago
LOVE this! I'm going to give it a try the next time I'm at a store!
#3
When I was in high school, there was a girl that never talked to anyone, was all alone, and I never once saw her speak for long periods of time, unless it was for projects or something, but that really isn’t the main thing. The first time we had the Valentines Day party, I noticed she seemed really down, because (I think) all the other girls where getting flowers and such from the boys (you could buy flowers and other stuff for someone if you wanted), so I kind of felt bad. I decided to buy her a flower, but anonymously. When she recueved the flower, she seemed...confused, but at least she smiled. The next year, same thing happend, every girl with flowers except for her, so I did the same, this time she once more seemed surprised, but not bad surprised, happy surprised. Next year I did the same, but this time I gave her a whole bouquet of flowers, she seemed overflowing with joy. People asked her who gave her those, and she said she didn’t know, but was happy. Maybe not the most interesting story here, but putting a smile on someone really made me feel happy.
Yort 4 years ago
Honestly I think schools need to stop doing that kind of thing. Just makes people who already feel like losers feel even worse about themselves, and makes the popular kids just feel popular.
BakuDeku Shipper 4 years ago
Yeah. For Halloween our school had candy grams. People would pretty much brag about how they got like, 5 candies(MnMs, Skittles, etc.) Although I did get one, it had been a single Hershey kiss, which made me really sad. I felt guilty for not being grateful enough for getting one in the first place, let alone the fact that it was my fried who bought it for me.
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LotusWolff 4 years ago
For Valentine's Day in Grade 4, almost every girl in class got a carnation from someone. EXCEPT FOR ME. My friend Tessa gave me her lollipop because she felt bad for me. I am so grateful!
Gretchen Esquilin 4 years ago
I did the same thing for a boy in my class. He literally cried when he saw that I was the only other person besides the teacher that gave him a Candy-gram. (Yes, just like in Mean Girls.) I even tracked him down thru some FB sleuthing so he wouldn't be left out of our class reunion. He was so grateful & had a total blast! Love that kid/guy!
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
You managed to do something that young girl will never forgot, yay you.
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
You never know how much one small act of kindness might mean to someone, especially if they're not really showered with affection.
Mia Franze 4 years ago
YOU ARE A ROCKSTAR! I wish someone had thought to do this for me. My life "may" have turned out differently with a tiny hint of something to boost self esteem.
#4
When I was 19 I needed blood work done and it was super icey out. I just finished and was getting ready to leave when two elderly ladies came in. They commented on how slippery it was and if the clinic had anyone to help them walk back to their car.
They were told no, so I sat back down and waited. Half an hour later they went in and the receptionist told me I could leave, I was done. I told her "I know" and sat there.
When the ladies came out they looked a little scared to walk outside and I stood up and said I heard them ask for help and I would help them to their car.
I walked the ladies one at a time, letting them hold me for support as I shuffled us to their car. Then, after they were both safely inside, I scraped the ice off their car so they could leave.
They offered me money, but I refused and just wished them safe travels.
After they left I went to my own car, where I proceeded to fall on my butt fives times.
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
That was not only very sweet, you also saved them from a legitimately dangerous situation. Elderly people who fall can easily injure themselves gravely. ⁰I've often seen how complications a fractured hip or thigh can lead to permanent immobility and even death. You might have saved a life :)
Dippin Dot 4 years ago
I did something like that too. It was cold and icy out and a lady was holding onto everything she could while exiting the pharmacy. I was on the phone with my mom, said “I’ll call you right back” and walked the lady to her car before I went back in. After I left I called my mom back and told her why I cut her off. She was ok with it.
T J R 4 years ago
That happened to me once too. I helped an elderly man get to his car safely while also carrying his groceries. I turned to head towards my car and down I went. He was so concerned and wanted to come help me. I told him I'd rather it be just me on the ground and not the both of us. He stayed in his car, but said he wouldn't leave the parking lot until I was safely in my car. Thankfully I didn't fall again and he did a little honk and wave as he headed home.
Jonathan 4 years ago (edited)
I'm a care and support worker and I always offer help to any elderly person I see struggling, it's not just my job to care- it's my nature. I'm a guy and they sometimes seem unsure and scared at first but as soon as I start friendly chat they relax. I was raised by my grandmother and she made me aware it costs nothing to be kind. She lives on through that lesson she taught me.
#5
I was getting some breakfast one time after a late night out. I was sitting in the restaurant waiting for my food and this younger boy comes in - probably 13-14 or so and orders some food. By the way he was dressed and how he looked you could tell he was definitely living in rough times.
He ordered and when they told him the total he pulled some wadded up $1 bills from his pocket and some change - he ended up like 4-5$ short.
He had this defeated look on his face and apologized and turned to walk out. I stopped him, asked the cashier to re-ring up his order, added a large drink and an extra burrito to it, and paid for the whole thing. He tried to give me the money he had and when I refused he just stood there and slowly tears came over his eyes. I told him to stay strong and not give up because things will get better.
I walked out and barely made it to my car before I broke down too. I used to be that kid.
Louloubelle 4 years ago
Kids that are homeless, on their own, break my heart. My daughter knows how lucky she is. She is transgender, as are many of her friends. So many of them have been kicked out of their homes or bullied. I cannot imagine doing that to her. What a loss for their families, to lose their child.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
If more people did this less people would go hungry, it doesn't cost a lot.
Kari Panda 4 years ago
Apart from helping that kid in this particular situation, this so often makes a difference in the long term. If you struggle, especially if through no fault of your own, you often become angry sooner or later. Angry at the world for being so shitty. Angry at others for doing better than you despite being douchebags. An act of kindness like this can remind you that there is good in the world and that everyone chooses what kind of person they want to be.
panDAheART 4 years ago
Totally agree with this. This person did more than help this kid eat; they gave him hope
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Lyn Moffett 4 years ago
It never costs me a thought to help people who are maybe short of change at the cash desk, or help people carry bags etc. It's just human response if you see someone struggle. We should all want to help but unfortunately people rarely do. Breaks my heart cos I remember the struggle all too well when I was a kid.
#6
Bought insulin for the child of a lady in front of me at the pharmacy. The woman (single mom) was in tears & didn’t have the $200 copay for that month. I gave her my number & told her to call me within the next few days. That was a few years ago. She now manages the office at my practice, makes enough $ for anything she needs/wants, & is one of my closest friends. (And now she has excellent insurance for herself & her son!) Be kind—it can literally change lives!
Robert T 4 years ago
Whilst this is a lovely story, it still makes me angry that you live in a country that makes you pay for insulin, and even worse insulin for a child. This shouldn't even be a thing.
Rens 4 years ago
My daughter is a type 1 diabetic, and we've always had all her medication covered; as an EU citizen, she will be covered for life. Type 1 diabetes isn't a lifestyle choice, they will DIE without insulin. Wealthy developed countries should cover medications and medical costs for anyone with a chronic illness and/or disability.
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Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Lovely and amazing story but this should NOT be happening, people should not have to worry about not being able to afford being ill.
Karl Baxter 4 years ago
The notion that the US charges diabetics for their medication is disgraceful
Jods 4 years ago
Angry. Angry. Angry. How can the leaders of one of the richest countries in the world be OK with people dying because they cannot afford the meds they need? America isn’t run by its president, it’s run by the big pharma and insurance companies getting richer and richer from sickness and disease. Remember the time that you lot kicked up a fuss and booted us Brits out of ‘the colonies’? Why don’t you do the same to the pharma and insurance companies. Tell ‘em enough is enough
J Adams 4 years ago
the whole American healthcare system from the outside seems like a shakedown in that patients can either pay or die so companies can set whatever prices they want, The insulin I use here in the uk is 4 times as expensive in the USA I dread to think how much a few rounds of chemotherapy would cost!!
T J R 4 years ago
My uncle had a liver transplant. He would have died if he didn't receive it. After the surgery, all of the medical bills started to arrive. He had to file for bankruptcy because he couldn't afford to pay the $1.2 million in medical bills and still pay for the 9 different medications he takes daily.
Load More Replies... WildHoneyPie 4 years ago
When I had surgery my surgeon told me how when her partner needed her inhaler she asked her where it was. She told her that she had given it to a patient because she couldn't afford one. That wasn't the first time either.
Jonathan 4 years ago (edited)
I'm disgusted with the healthcare system in America. I'm Scottish and so grateful for our NHS. I was in the pharmacy on Monday and an American lady came in and asked to buy an inhaler as hers had finished and was so shocked when the pharmacist told her just to call a local GP and they'll sort her out with a prescription for free.
#7
Waiting to see my doctor. I see an elderly man with a walker talking to a driver service for seniors/handicap people about getting him a ride home. Apparently there was a mix up and they couldn't get a driver there. My doctor called me in and when I came out, the elderly man was still there talking to the driver service. I told the guy if he trusts me I'll take him home. He responded "but I haven't seen the doctor yet" I told him I'll wait. Dude looked like he was going to cry.
He was actually a really nice man and it was a pleasant ride.
Fran Morasco 4 years ago
There are more than you can imagine. And kindness usually begets kindness.
Load More Replies... Jonathan 4 years ago
Always help elderly people if they look as though they need help- hopefully we'll all make it to our senior years and may need help- I'm a firm believer in karma.
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
I second that and agree with you 100%! I am also a firm believer in Karma.
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#8
Back when quarantine and stuff first started, I was headed back from the store and came across a broken down car. He had almost made it into the CVS parking lot, but the car gave out just outside of it. I pulled into the parking lot and asked if he wanted a push out of the road, he did. I pushed the car, and got it half way up the little incline going into the parking lot, but couldn't get it any further by myself (he had a bad leg and couldnt help...plus he needed to be behind the wheel), but it was out of the street. I asked him what happened, and he told me he had run out of gas. Asked if he had a gas can, and he pulled out a small gas can, I offered to run it down to the gas station and bring it back. On the way back from gilling it up, I began to think to myself that this little bit of gas wouldn't get him very far, and as I had just gotten paid and had just pulled some cash from the bank, figured he could use a little help.
When I got to the guy, I gave him the gas can as well as $40 and I told him, "I'm not sure how far you need to go, but that little bit of gas isnt gonna get you very far, I hope this helps you out some". He just looked at the money and back at me, like I'd given him the keys to a new house or something. He started telling me, "I get paid tomorrow, I can give you my address and I will pay you back" but I insisted I didnt want anything in return. He looked like he was on the verge of tears. He explained how he had just gotten out of jail a few months before and was trying really hard to stay on the right path, working an honest job and everything, but that it was hard. He told me he would take my kindness as a sign that he was on the right path and thanked me several times. Had I known how much it meant to him, I would've given him more. I hope hes doing well
albernistuff 4sale 4 years ago
Just encourage folks to pay it forward, rather than pay it back
Sandy Witherspoon 4 years ago
I think it was the perfect amount. According to Aish.com: "The number 40 has great significance throughout the Torah and the Talmud. The number 40 represents transition or change; the concept of renewal; a new beginning. The number 40 has the power to lift a spiritual state."
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
It's not the amount of money you gave, it's that you cared, listened and didn't judge. Thank you.
Lynne Stankard 4 years ago
I'm not crying........................OK OK you win - I'm a wet sloppy mess xxx
#9
It’s not much, but whenever I see a work of art online, be it a painting/drawing, original music, a dance, creative writing, etc, I always try to leave a small compliment/acknowledgement of their work because I know how much courage it takes to post your creative work online.
∘ユーザー名∘ 4 years ago
That can really mean a lot. I remember people would compliment my art as I was just getting into posting it online. It always made my day!
BakuDeku Shipper 4 years ago
I'm on the path to creating art. I have yet to post anything though
Load More Replies... the Me_greatest 4 years ago
If I see art I either leave a like or comment and like. Nothing hateful. Ever
Mary Bricklin 4 years ago
I do this too, with art and with fanfiction/stories posted online. I write fanfiction and original stories of my own so I know how much courage that can take.
Mz Phit 4 years ago
Me too! It's really tough when you feel like you're creating in a vacuum. Great to hear from an audience
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Tobias the Tiger 4 years ago
I tend to find complimenting difficult (though I may leave a compliment if i can think of anything specific to say), but I do often leave a like/upvote of some kind.
#10
I was extremely stressed and took a mental health day, planning on going to mom's and crying myself to sleep. We ended up going to the mall, and even though money was really tight for her, she wanted to buy me lunch (we split the bill). She realized that she lost a newer $50 bill while walking around. She was devastated.
I traded my smaller bills to a cashier for a newer $50, folded it like she would, and tossed it under the seat of her car. The next day she called me, almost crying because she was excited to find it and said that without it, groceries would've been pretty tight that week.
Taking me out that day prevented me from having a full breakdown. I think $50 was a small price to pay for what she did for me that day.
SoozeeQ 4 years ago
When I was in Year 10 (many moons ago), I went on a 3-week school trip from Melbourne, to Central Australia. My Mum was widowed and money was tight, but she had promised me $50 to take as spending money. (I didn't get pocket money back then). On the day of departure, she gave me $40, as she'd had a few recent bills, and that's all she could afford to spare. Being a selfish teenager, I chucked a trantrum and insisted on the $50, because "you promised and all the other kids will have money, it's not fair!" She reluctantly gave me the extra $10. My conscience eventually kicked in and I felt really bad about it, and decided to see if I could get by, with just the $40, after all. (Keep in mind, that all our meals were provided for and there was fruit and snacks available as well, so it wasn't as though i was going to go hungry or anything). 1/2
SoozeeQ 4 years ago (edited)
Some kids had their own debit cards and I watched them spend $300 on junk food and treats, but I kept to my budget and spent as little as possible. At Coober Pedy, an underground outback town in South Australia, we had to spend money to use the camping showers, as water was a precious and somewhat rare, resource. It was 20 cents at the time, for about a minute. I turned the water on, and got wet. Turned it off, lathered up, and rinsed off. Some students spent about $2 per shower, but I was quite pleased to only do it for 20 cents! (Usually, I like to linger under a hot shower, but this time, I was the one paying for it!). By the time we got to Alice Springs, I still hadn't spent all my money and managed to buy Mum the obligatory souvenir linen tea-towel! I was so pleased with myself to be able to return home and give Mum the remaining $10 back. She was extremely grateful, as she needed it for groceries that week. Sometimes kids have no idea of how tight things can be.
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Liz Gillum 4 years ago
I hope you are now feeling much, much better and coping okay. You are a lovely daughter!
#11
My fiancé lost the ring I made her and she was super distraught about it. I hand crafted our rings myself, (I metal work) they are interlocking one of a kind designed and made entirely by me. So she lost it and we couldn’t find it. She was so sad since she loved it, I worked from home during the pandemic so every time she went to work I started to make a new ring. And in about 4-5 days I said I found it and handed her the one I made brand new. She still doesn’t know. I’d like to keep it that way as well. I don’t need her feeling terrible.
Lsai Aeon 4 years ago
that will work till she finds the original in some odd random place she never thought to look
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
Then she realizes just how much her fiancé loves her :-)
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#12
A lot of homeless people in Lahaina (on the island of Maui) get by on fishing.
One night, while leaving a restaurant, my girlfriend and I saw an elderly man sleeping near the Old Banyan tree. She pointed out that the fishing pole next to him had been snapped multiple times, with splintered ends and everything (probably by some a-hole tourist).
Knowing that fishing pole was how he'd kept himself fed and seeing his livelihood compromised like that really bothered us. So my girlfriend and I got in my car and drove to the only Walmart on the island in Kahului (all the stores in Lahaina usually close by sundown).
We bought a new fishing pole and gear and drove back to Lahaina. Fearing the cops might suspect him of stealing this new gear, my girlfriend wrote a note on the receipt saying, "Hold on to this," and left it in the tacklebox. When we got back to the Banyan tree, I set the gear down next to the old man.
The next day, we saw him fishing with the new pole on Front street.
Please remember to Practice Aloha.
The reason we know it was likely a tourist is because it was definitely not a local. Locals treat each other's fishing gear as sacred. To intentionally damage or steal one is as taboo as a Texan stealing his neighbor's propane-powered grill.
LotusWolff 4 years ago (edited)
What a horrible person! (the one who broke the fishing pole) I hope they rot in hell!
Kari Panda 4 years ago (edited)
Wonderful act, and maybe it was not a tourist. If he was homeless, maybe he found a broken fishing pole in the garbage and decided to use it.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Some lovely kind people out in the world but also some scumbags, thankyou for helping the old man out.
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, that was so nice of you both. I hope that Karma got that horrible tourist!
#13
I do IT work, usually small business and a lot of home repair. I have many wealthy clients and a few not so fortunate. It is not unusual for me to go to a home and it is obvious they are barely scraping by. So I either don't charge those people, or make it a nominal fee. I also refurb the old PC's and give them to people who have one that is not repairable.
My best fee ever was a basket of home grown creole tomatoes, damn those things are delicious.
Julie McCann 4 years ago
Good and bad dude..love the care but also setting a precedent that won't be upheld without you... love this and want it to grow to a bigger concept
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, that is so nice of you. Home grown vegetables are really delicious.
Bettie-Jean Neal 4 years ago
I love the barter system. I'd be totally fine with a basket of tomatoes!
#14
I lost my mom earlier this year and am still working through the grief. The first week a came back my coworkers had gave me a check for several hundred dollars as a kind gesture. I was truly overwhelmed by the generosity.
The following week I came into the break room to find one of the techs with a lost look on her face. She had just gotten a phone call that her brother had been murdered the night before. She had moved to our city just a year prior and didn’t have any family close by. As I held her and listened to her cry, I booked her a flight home. It was several hundred dollars as she is from a small town and the flight was for later that day. I told her to go be with family and let me know when she was ready to come back. I had no doubt that is exactly what my mom would have wanted me to do.
WildHoneyPie 4 years ago
Wow, paying it back right away! Your mom would definitely be overjoyed.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Your mom raised an amazing, caring, selfless person, she would be very proud of you, sorry for your loss.
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, please give my deepest condolences to that tech. That was so kind of you.
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
I am very sorry for your loss. I'm sure you made your mom very proud that day and eased someone's pain.
#15
My friend from college was struggling to get the money to pay for his cat’s surgery. We did everything we could to raise the money, I even asked my father to put this little donation box on his craftbeer bar, but we were still missing a few bucks. My friend doesn’t know it, but I added some really good money to the box before handling it to him and, omg, I still remember how grateful he was when he saw the money was more than enough… He also told me, after the surgery, that he never believed we could make it but he saw the dedication I put into it and believed in me
JennyLaRue 4 years ago
I imagine your friend will forever remember how grateful he was after witnessing what you made possible, and he'll one day pay that forward.
Susan Green 4 years ago
Awww thanks to you, and everyone else who donated, this sweetie had the necessary surgery it needed.
Suzy the observer 4 years ago
I volunteer at a refuge where we have 16 older cats, 6 of which are sick. In their name and from the bottom of their paws to the end of their whiskers, thank you.
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, that was so nice of you. I am so glad that your friend's dear sweet kitty is doing fine.
#16
I was in my art class in high school and there was a girl who I didn't really know a few grades younger. I could tell she didn't have many friends but was really sweet. She was talking to me one day and told me her birthday was soon and that she was so excited. I decided to send her those balloons and whatnot you can get through the student store on her birthday, though she didn't know me very well so I didn't sign my name. It just so happened that the student store worker brought them in during our art class and I got to see her reaction. She lit up and kept telling us it had to have been her mom or her best friend who did it, and how she couldn't believe that someone got her something and she wouldn't stop smiling the whole rest of class. I never told her it was me, I was just happy she felt special. That was a pretty good day.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Something so small can have a massive impact, you made her birthday bless you.
#17
A lady was fleeing an abusive marriage without much more than her kids and the clothes on her back. Word went out within a whisper network requesting a few essentials she needed.
Packed up several things from the request list and also one thing that wasn't requested. I make jewelry as a hobby. Put a pair of handmade earrings into a gift bag: silver and pearls. Added a handwritten note that every woman deserves something beautiful and sending good wishes her way.
BakuDeku Shipper 4 years ago
I think it made her life, and I definitely agree that the person who posted this is a lovely person.
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Niki Butts 4 years ago
I almost have to wonder if I was the woman fleeing an abusive relationship. I ended up in a safehouse across the country from where i was from and a church friend brought me a bunch of things that people had donated. I had left with literally the clothes on my back (a pair of scrubs and crocs). In that bundle was some jewelry and makeup. You have no idea how much something like that means to someone who literally had to leave everything behind. ❤
Rez Fidel 4 years ago
When a women concentration camp was freed by allied forces and the remaining survivors where taken care of there was that comander who also got the women who mostly looked like the walking dead some make-up so that they could feel human again. Reminds me of this.. See the human in everyone. Always.
Marilyn Ransberry 4 years ago
Wonderful . The thought someone felt she was special would be more important than the actual earrings. So needed after an abusive relationship.
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
I'm sure she'll treasure them forever, thank you for your kindness.
#18
I’ve never even told my husband this story.
I work night shift and one night before work, I stopped at the local Walmart to grab a few snacks etc. This young guy stops me in the parking lot and asks me for money. I said I was sorry I didn’t have any cash.
It was blistering cold outside. Where I live, in the winter the wind blows so hard and so cold you can get frostbite.
I got to the door of the Walmart and turned around and went and found him in the parking lot. I told him to follow me in and wait at the McDonalds inside. I went into the store, bought him long underwear, a thermal shirt, wool socks and gloves. I got back to him, gave him the stuff and bought him a meal at McDonald’s. He was so thankful for the warm clothes he started to cry. As I was leaving the McDonald’s, a lady put her hand on my arm and said “that was very nice of you. I watched everything you did.” I just nodded and walked away. Don’t need recognition for that. He needed something and I was in a position to help him, so I did.
LotusWolff 4 years ago
I used all my tissues... goodbye now. These restored some of my faith in humanity! :')
Stannous Flouride 4 years ago
Damned onion peeling ninjas are in my room again!
Load More Replies... Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
If only more people had your mind set, sometimes you might not think your doing a lot to help someone but every act of kindness not only helps but lifts people's spirits too.
David F 4 years ago
I had someone do the same thing for me when I was homeless. It was crazy how many times I'd get depression in the winter and leave my stuff somewhere and it would get stolen then I would get more depressed and have nothing. And just be standing there at dark with nothing. So many nights like that I just walked around freezing and then one night somebody would help out and make a huge difference. Thanks for being so nice to people.
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
Sometimes I'm so desperate and lost because there's so much going on that I feel powerless to change, but this shows me that one person can make a huge difference. Thank you.
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, that was so nice of you. I hope that things turned out better for that young man.
#19
Saw a homeless guy walking on the sidewalk in the middle of a 100 degree day and it was clear that his feet were severely burned. He was hobbling and his feet were clearly sunburned.
I had a brand new pair of shoes in my trunk so I pulled over and handed it to him. He literally cried and said that I would never understand what this meant to him.
It broke my heart.
David F 4 years ago (edited)
I was homeless with no shoes and hobbleing along. In five minutes I had three cars just stop without asking or anything , guy gave me shows another car gave me $20 and a burrito and the last car gave me $20, a jacket, and a bus pass. I was so happy. And I can't remember why I had no shoes at that time. I was psychotic depressed , I can't remember why I was the way I was. It's sad but that's how being mentally disabled is.
Mazer 4 years ago
The most asked for item in every shelter is socks. They are not that expensive and tho I live as poor white trash in my community, I will always buy socks when I can and take them to the shelter. I encourage everyone to do the same. You can take your gently used clothing as well (be sure to call and ask what they need first).
Alberto Cevallos 4 years ago
Porque tuve hambre, y me disteis de comer; tuve sed, y me disteis de beber; era forastero, y me acogisteis; estaba desnudo, y me vestisteis; enfermo, y me visitasteis; en la cárcel, y vinisteis a verme." . Entonces los justos le responderán: "Señor, ¿cuándo te vimos hambriento, y te dimos de comer; o sediento, y te dimos de beber? ¿Cuándo te vimos forastero, y te acogimos; o desnudo, y te vestimos?. ¿Cuándo te vimos enfermo o en la cárcel, y fuimos a verte?" Y el Rey les dirá: "En verdad os digo que cuanto hicisteis a unos de estos hermanos míos más pequeños, a mí me lo hicisteis."" sorry I had to write it in my native language the tears won't let me translate ...
Hugo A-niro 4 years ago
We must tell billionaires to stop giving money to "charities" and give it directly to those who need it. They will change the world if they do this
#20
I grew up with not a lot of money and definitely not in the best neighborhoods. My parents struggled with drug and alcohol abuse so we never had any money. I got myself through college and finally landed a pretty good job. I was visiting a friend of mine who still lived in the same neighborhood and saw there was a girl scout table out in front of a convenience store. Nobody was really buying the cookies. I had just gotten my first bonus from work and had a couple hundred bucks on me. After I left his place I went over and bought $500 worth of Girl Scout cookies. The little girls were so excited! Over the next few weeks I just randomly gave all those boxes of cookies away.
Shadow_TheArtistDemon 4 years ago
I’m a Girl Scout, and you have no idea how much this means. Not many people buy Girl Scout Cookies, and so we don’t make much money, so we can’t do fun things. Here’s a fact: we only get 1 out of 5 dollars for our troop. So I’m pretty sure that these girls only got $100 out of $500.
Onion rings like to make your breath smelly 4 years ago
thats so kind of you. its a win-win for everyone!
#21
I went to the web site: onesimplewish.org which specializes in providing foster kids with things they wouldn't ordinarily get. An 11 year old was asking for a bike for his birthday, but his foster family couldn't afford to buy him one. For less than $200 I paid for the kid's new bike.
LotusWolff 4 years ago (edited)
Anyone else go to onesimplewish.org and try to buy someone something?
Anthony Mann 4 years ago
I just did. That was fun, and it felt good. Better yet, it makes me feel a little better about a missed opportunity a few years back. A man and his 7yr old son were at the Uni bookstore, and he had to put a book back because he couldn't afford it. I ALMOST paid for his book while he wasn't looking, but I was worried my wife would be upset. I should have known better - she said I should have paid for it. Always felt bad about that. I still think about how he must have felt, returning that book in front of his son, unable to pay for it. I wish I could go back and buy that book for him.
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Zoe's Mom 4 years ago
This is so generous but it pisses me off as well. Foster parents received money for each foster child they get; I know, I fostered. Granted, it's never enough but damn it, they could have bought the kid the bike.
Helen Haley 4 years ago
Depends on the states. Some states foster parents barely get enough to cover food.
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Karen Lawyer 4 years ago
Unfortunately, most of the time these types of possessions usually do not stay with the kid when shuffled between homes.
Argie Smith 4 years ago
Website is real! Started by a colleague's wife; they are the best, most selfless people I know. Please give generously, if you can. The kids they help literally have nothing to call their own.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Amazing,thankyou for sharing this site with us, I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I'm going to take your lead and donate myself.
Stannous Flouride 4 years ago
I wasn't able to fulfill any of the wishes on that site so I looked around and found several others: DonorsChoose.org, HeroArts.com, and ChelseasCharity.com I chose a teacher's wish for art materials for her predominantly black elementary school.
Janice Humbertson 4 years ago
Former foster kid here. I hope he got to keep it, but probably didn't. In my experience, the foster families keep everything and send the kid with nothing if they get adopted or go to a different family. They keep all the toys...and clothes, for the next kid. Same thing happened with my sisters.
#22
There's a semi-secluded bus stop beside a store I used to work at, and a homeless guy started sleeping there on the bench halfway between the stop and the parking lot one winter.
One day I got to work 15 mins early and saw him sleeping, wearing just a flannel and jeans. So I ram into the store, bought a blanket, and covered him up with it.
He never woke up so he didn't know it was me. Every time I saw him sitting on the bench he had the blanket wrapped around him.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Awww, your act of kindness is keeping him a bit warmer at night, thankyou.
Feminist Percussionist 3 years ago
OP meant he never woke up when covering the guy with the blanket. The last sentence confirms the homeless guy is alive.
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#23
My brother is a heroin addict and has been homeless for 15 years. In November he wound up in a coma with severe blood poisoning and ultimately lost both of his legs to frostbite. Broke my heart because apparently frostbite is extremely common in the homeless community and a lot of those you see in wheelchairs, that is how they lost their limbs. So I put together 10 winter kits each with new socks, a beanie and gloves, a face-mask, rain poncho, emergency blanket, water bottles, some food, chapstick and many hand/feet warmers. Kept them in my car and handed them out whenever I saw someone in need
Rens 4 years ago
This is a brilliant idea, if more people did this, it would really benefit so many people. I was approached once by 2 homeless men asking for loose change so they could get a bed each. It was bitterly cold, Norwich UK in January. At the time, homeless rough sleepers were being doused in water and there were some deaths. Heartbreakingly cruelty to helpless people. I had no money, but I had several cards for free coffee from Macdonald's, and my packed lunch for my night shift. I also gave them my hat, scarf and gloves. Broke my heart I didn't have any money to give, I was the victim of economic (and every other type of) abuse.
Jo Falkinder 4 years ago
Rens, you did more for them than many people would have done. Most wouldn't even have got them a coffee no matter how much money they had x
Load More Replies... over it already 4 years ago
Add some tampons/pads to the mix. I now carry an extra 'shark week' pack after I spoke to a woman asking for$ at an intersection and crying. I asked why she was crying and she said it was that time and she didn't have$ for pads and groceries for her child. She was standing in the heat with a jacket ties around her waist. I gave her all I had in my bags & car, but it made me get some brown lunch bags together with supplies for the next time someone might need what they're embarrassed to talk about.
Amy Lara 4 years ago
I used to volunteer at a food pantry that serves a lot of homeless people. Most people donate things like pasta and beans, which are great, but one time someone donated a couple of boxes of hand and foot warmers. Those disappeared extremely fast! They're too expensive for a lot of people to buy, but they help a lot when you have to be outside in the winter.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Brilliant, simple, easy, not too expensive idea, will be greatly appreciated I'm sure.
Nadine Bamberger 4 years ago
There's a non-profit called "randomacts.org", they support things like that, often collect winter or summer gear for the unhoused, help build an orphanage in Haiti or buy parts of the rainforest. Random acts of kindness that can slowly change the world. Please check them out.
Vetus Vespertilio 4 years ago
I’m sure the writer did everything he could to help his brother. It’s very difficult to help someone who doesn’t want to be helped.
Load More Replies... #24
I'm a member of a Sims group on FB where people talk about the game, expansion packs etc. I noticed a comment by a teenager who said her favourite pack would be Pets but she can't afford it. I went onto her page and saw that she really loved horses. I could also tell from her pictures that her mum was disabled and money looked tight. I was fortunate enough when I was her age to always get the packs on the release dates and I used The Sims as a wind down from revising and school. I thought that this girl needed the escapism way more than I ever did so I bought every expansion pack, messaged her the activation codes, a link to a YouTube video on how to use them, and a short message saying I hope you enjoy playing and to keep smiling.
I really do wish her the very best.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
She sound like she deserves a treat and your a star for doing that for her.
#25
On winter weekdays when I go downtown to practice the organ, there's usually a destitute man on the front steps of the locked church.
When I unlock the door, I invite him in out of the cold and let him sleep on a cushioned pew in the relative warmth of the building while I practice or teach organ lessons.
He's always very appreciative of the relief from being outside and leaves with obvious appreciation when it's time for me go.
Teresa Spanics 4 years ago
AWW, that was so nice of you. I hope that things turned out better for that man.
#26
This is a small act and probably a bit weird, but growing up as the oldest daughter by 7 years left my younger siblings and I's relationship a bit distant. There just wasn't much to relate to(my flavor of adhd also makes emoting really hard for me), and honestly I just always found younger kids annoying so I wasn't a very good sister to them- to be honest I was just a bully. But when I was around 14-15, my siblings came up to me to show me a couple shiny coins they found- they seemed so excited about it. The youngest, my sister kept talking about how rich she was with one of those ear-to-ear grins kids get when their excited about something. It was really refreshing to see my siblings so happy, and it was honestly adorable. Since then whenever I had spare change I'd "drop" it somewhere I knew they'd notice around the house and just let them find it whenever. They got so happy every time they found one. Now I'm 19, (my siblings are 12 and 8), I still on occasion sneak a dollar into their laundry or something, and we're a lot closer now. I have considered telling them since I'm moving out really soon, but I think this'll just stay a secret. At this point telling them will just ruin the magic.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
No don't tell please! Keep the magic alive for them, enough disappointment in the world.
Karen Lyon 4 years ago
But maybe let your Mom in on it. Give her some of your money, every once in awhile, and have her play magic money fairy for you.
Marcia Ferris 4 years ago
I think you found a great, personal way of caring for your siblings.
#27
If I'm walking a trail and i see a tree or sapling is damaged i do my best to either mend its injury or remove the broken part to let the tree grow unencumbered. It's rewarding to come back after a year or two to see the sapling you helped take good roots and refuse to wither
Nikki Sevven 4 years ago
My daughter and her best friend are hikers. They always take a small trash bag each to pick up other people's trash along the trails they hike. At the end of their hikes, they almost always have two full bags.
BlockDog02 4 years ago
That reminds me of a cafe somewhere in the west of Ireland, next to a beach (Inch Beach I think), that gives a free coffee to everyone who collects a bucket of rubbish. Even though I didn't like coffee so I didn't get any, that inspired me to collect a big bag of rubbish :)
Load More Replies... #28
The ex army old fella moved in next door around a year ago
We get along OK, eventually I found out he lives on pasta.. just pasta with nothing else because money
I like to make extra food and take over any leftovers fairly regularly
I usually take a beer over as well but I suspect he doesn't drink these
It's not a big thing but I think it helps out
ベンジーBenji 4 years ago
This makes me kind of sad. There are programs and should be more to help out our vets.
Rannveig Ess 4 years ago
There are quite a few organizations that help vets, but many are too proud, or embarrassed, to ask for it
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Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Maybe not a big thing to you but a massive thing to that man , shocking and sick however how there's so many ex vets homeless and/or living in poverty, what a lovely way to thank them for service to our countries.
#29
I saw this homeless man eating some pizza and after we talked a bit, I let him use my shower and offered to let him sleep on my couch for the night. He declined the couch, but his laughter in the shower made me really smile. I've never told anyone this.
Hugo A-niro 4 years ago
I don't know if I could have done this but I give you credit for doing it
#30
I was cleaning out my car at one of the big stops where they have pull up parking with a vacuum hose on both sides. This car pulled in next to me trying to park in the space between the spots. Me being cynical I'm annoyed and grumbling in my head. Turns out it was this little old lady. For some people the soft spot is kids or animals but for me it's old people. Anyway, I helped her get her parking sorted and ended up vacuuming her car out as well. In my eyes it looked pretty spotless already. My grandma treated her car the same way. By the end she was in tears when saying her thank yous. What took me all of 10 mins would have taken her much longer. Felt good.
David F 4 years ago
One time, I went to get change at a car wash. So, this old man like really old like 90's was trying to get a $5 bill in the machine and it would not take it because he was shaking so much. I said Id help him and got the bill to work. Then I'm walking out and and he's washing a huge UHaul truck and he's doing it fast. So I ask, do you want help? He's tells me if it's not washed he will get an extra charge and only has twenty minutes to get back. So I rush a wash on this guy's truck, he almost ran me over and took out the brush when he left without telling me. I felt like I did a good thing though.
#31
When I was around 12-13 I gave this homeless man a bottle of water and sandwich every day for 2 months. I was in a summer program and brought my own lunch, since they also gave us lunches I would give it to him
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Such a kind act at a young age shows you have been raised right and will continue to bloom into a kind, considerate, caring adult.
SoozeeQ 4 years ago
Just what I was thinking: "that kid's been raised right".
Load More Replies... Burs 4 years ago
That’s how I met my best friend. He used to get sandwiches in his dorms and he could pick two if he wanted. He noticed that I never brought food at campus (I had money enough but not time to go to the bakery and make something) and he started bring one for me as well. I have no idea why he did that but we started talking and here we are 13 years after and still friends
Sophia Atkinson 4 years ago
I did and still do something similar. When I was 5 I saw a water bottle vending machine at Costco and asked my mom for a quarter. She gave me the quarter and I got the water. Just as we were leaving the store and I was going to ask my mom to open the bottle, I saw a homeless man with a sign that said water and food. (It probably said more but I was 5 so those were the words I could read) I told my mom to give the water to the man and he was very happy to get it. I bring quarters with me to Costco every time we go there and give it to one of the homeless people
Rukkia 4 years ago
I work with people experiencing homelessness, and one of my proudest days, was when one of my most vulnerable clients told me about this kid that stopped and gave him some butterscotch. He was very happy and boasted to me about it. Turns out, that kid was my son, 12 at the time.
#32
One weekend when I was in my teens, I was wandering around outside daydreaming as bored teenagers with no close friends tend to do. In the vicinity of an old one-room schoolhouse, I found a plastic jar that said "OPEN ME" on the lid, and I did so.
The jar was filled with dry black-eyed peas, plus, buried within, a small illustrated flier that said "Goodbye, Earl!"
It was a certificate from a local country music station redeemable for free tickets to a Dixie Chicks concert. I found out the next day from a classmate that it was part of a contest in which the station gave out daily clues during airtime as to the jar's location, so listeners could search for it. I had stumbled across it entirely by coincidence.
I had no interest in country music, but I knew that a girl in one of my classes was a Dixie Chicks fanatic. A couple days after finding it, toward the end of class, I left the certificate on the floor by her desk where she would find it. (I had never spoken to this person, nor would I go on to - beyond the shared space of a classroom, our milieux did not intersect.) Her look of sheer, incredulous joy and the way she rushed to catch up with one of her friends to show her as the class filed out was the highlight of my day.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Anonymous acts of kindness and generosity are definitely the best, people who does things purely out the goodness of their own heart are living angels.
Jonathan 4 years ago
I was/am a HUGE fan of the band Katzenjammer. They were doing a concert in my city and I messaged their FB page to say I was so upset I wouldn't be able to go as it sold out plus money was so tight but could they record a couple of videos and maybe post them on their page. I got a message back saying 'there are 2 tickets for you in an envelope with your name on it in the box office.' I was so touched and it was an amazing show,
#33
I sneaked $50 into a woman’s purse upon overhearing her tell her child that they “couldn’t afford peanut butter."
Donkey boi 4 years ago
I was out with my wife and she heard a mother telling their kid she could afford a new rucksack, my wife casually checked out the isle, saw the bag the kid was fawning over, waited for them to leave then bought it. Because she's an introvert, she made me approach the woman and kid outside. The woman said that she could afford it, she just didn't want her daughter having 'yet another bag', so I kept it. I've still got my giraffe & zebra bag!
ChickyChicky 4 years ago
Ha, that happened to me and my daughter. I told her she couldn't have something because it wasn't in our budget, we had the money but it was something we really didn't need and she has tons of toys already. This sweet older lady offered to buy it for her, and I was stuck in this position of showing my daughter how to accept things with gratitude, and feeling like this lady thought she was doing something nice for people who aren't really poor. It was totally fine, the item cost a couple dollars, and the lady was so sweet and it made her smile. Sometimes we have to gracefully allow people to give us service, even if we don't really need it, and that's our service to them.
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Christopher Davis 4 years ago
My mom is that woman!!!!! She had told me at the store that day that we couldn't afford peanut butter then we got home and there was an unexpected $50 in her purse!!! Hahaha you really made her very happy thank you!!!!!
Nicole Holt 4 years ago
This story just brought back a memory. Many years ago, I overheard an older couple talking about how they didn't have enough money to afford all the groceries they needed. I walked to their aisle, gave the older man $60 I had in my wallet. He looked at me confused. I just said: "God told me to give this to you. Have a great day" And then I walked away. I hope it helped them and gave them some comfort.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
How upsetting to hear this, not like it even costs that much, poor lady must really be struggling at the moment.
#34
Nothing like the other ones.. But my mum had saved forever to buy herself her dream dining table and chairs. They were super expensive but she had a picture on the fridge, saved for a year and knew she’d have them forever.
I visited one day when she wasn’t home (my parents have no issue with us coming over without them there) and noticed the dogs had gotten in and absolutely destroyed one - they were still untrained puppies and had ripped off all the material, buttons, etc.. I popped it in my car, threw it out, found a place an hour away with the same chair and bought it ($300 chair so wasn’t cheap!).
She doesn’t know because she would’ve A) been shattered but found a way to fix it as best as possible, which honestly would’ve been impossible. And B) refused for me to replace something at that cost.
I’m just glad it was me who saw it first. She’s happy and always comments on how nice her table is and how she will have it forever, lol!
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
Sometimes ignorance really is bliss, bless your mum and bless your kind heart too.
Burs 4 years ago
This is very kind but nobody should spend that much money in furniture when money is tight
Kay blue 4 years ago
There is nothing wrong for saving up for something you really want, even if you don't have a lot of money.
Load More Replies... #35
Driving downtown on a Sunday afternoon a few years ago. A light up ahead turns green with some moderate traffic around me - such that my view of the disabled old lady using a walker standing in the middle of the street is obstructed by another car until it’s almost too late. I stomp the brakes and stop with maybe 20 feet to spare - but the guy behind me isn’t paying attention and rear-ends me. No one is hurt - but both cars have significant damage.
We wait for the cops to come and do a report for insurance purposes. While he’s at it - he takes the old disabled lady’s statement, along with ours, and quickly deduces this is all her fault. He hits her with a $100 fine for jay walking. The old lady starts crying because she clearly has nothing and can’t pay it - she’s living in some shelter nearby.
The cop leaves, and I’m exchanging info with the other driver, but the lady is beside herself. Not paying the ticket probably has no consequences for someone in her shoes, but still, she was nearly run over, and was traumatized by the whole affair. Plus, her life clearly just sucks. She’s old, disabled, destitute, and alone. And now she’s infused all of her unhappiness and anxiety into this dumb ticket she can’t hope to pay. She can’t stop crying - she going to pieces on a random sidewalk in Denver.
So I gave her $100 cash. Even though she cost me hours of time on a weekend, and caused several thousand in damage to my car. It was worth it just to see the look on her face. She clearly had not experienced any act of kindness in forever. Never told anyone about it until now - not even my wife.
I hope she spent it on something besides that stupid ticket.
Maiun 4 years ago
In the UK it would have been the fault of the driver who rear ended the car in front. They should have been far enough behind to stop in an emergency without smashing into the car in front. The pedestrian would never have been considered at fault. But then we don't have a thing called 'jay walking' here, we're trusted to cross the road safely. I don't understand why American's have so many really petty laws. It's like people are set up to fail and when they do society says, "I knew you'd f**k up". Yet they're the land of the free!
just me 4 years ago
Where I am in the US it would have been the fault of the driver in the rear car. Cop was a jerk.
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Seule Forever 4 years ago (edited)
Poor lady... As an adult with no car, I always walking or biking to go places. Some intersection don't have pedestrian lights, and those that have ones gave 25 seconds to cross the road (most I saw was 35 seconds), which is pretty short for someone like her who have trouble to walk... I feel like the cop should have think of those conditions before giving the ticket...
Joanne Hudson 4 years ago (edited)
I think its a made up story. Hitting in the rear is "failure to control" and hitter's insurance pays . He probably did give her money but I think the rest is made up.
#36
Saw a minivan lose control on a gravel road and roll into a slough. I u-turned back and went in to pull the driver out. It rolled onto its roof and was roughly half submerged upside downs. I had to go in through the back hatch to get the driver out.
Robert T 4 years ago (edited)
Another one that makes me sad. Yes, you did the right thing, but in many countries if you witness an accident, you are obligated to go and help or at least call the emergency services for assistance. I got caught up in an accident where the car in front of me stopped to make a right turn on a busy road and forced me to stop and several cars behind. Unfortunately it was over a little bit of a crest with a 60mph speed limit and a car ploughed into the back of a smaller car. First thing I did was pull my car to the side of the road and go and see that they were alright - they were shocked but fine - then I waited for the police to arrive in order to give them an accurate description of what happened. But this is what is expected of a fellow driver.
Ezalibeth 4 years ago
Once while driving through one of the side roads I saw a car lying in the ditch on its side and no one near, I stopped to check if anyone gets stuck or need help. There was a policeman inside to congratulate me. It turns out that it was police action - it's mandatory to stop while you see an accident - everyone who just drive pass was stopped by other cops near and get a lecture about it. I think it was good idea - next time those people will think twice before ignoring situation like this
Load More Replies... Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
You my love are a real life hero, well-done and thankyou for your fast acting, quick thinking bravery.
David F 4 years ago
Your a hero! One time my friend saw a minivan go into the snow on Route 80 in Lake Tahoe. He screamed that we had to stop then he ran into the snow and came back and said we have to call for them. Luckily we had a cell phone but they didn't. This was like 1997, so who knows , they might have died if we hadn't stopped. Cars are so dangerous. I think in the future everyone who rides in a car will have to wear helmets.
#37
My mom was sitting with me at a Costco food court. She saw a family and children were hungry crying. My mom get up split our whole pizza and gave it to the family and kids. I was so astonished my mom did that out of nowhere
David F 4 years ago
One time I was homeless in San Francisco and it's really hard to be homeless there. People don't help you out as much as they do in other places and they have very few drop-in options for food and stuff. So, this guy is walking home with a pizza, and he asks me how I'm doing. I had just found a huge down blanket and I told him, in going to find a place to sleep and I'm really happy I found this blanket I haven't slept for a week. He told me everything would work out and he handed me the pizza. I said to him I can't take your food, this must have cost you like $40 , and he's like i just want to see you happy. The box had like two whole pizzas in it stacked on top of each other and it was like the best kind of pizza like luxury pizza. I was really happy that night and one thing about San Francisco and being homeless there is like I said it's tough to get people to help you there but on the flip side nobody will harass you for sitting on the sidewalks. You're not afraid.
#38
I had a neighbor I didnt know very well at all. She had a young kid and a boyfriend who yelled a lot. We exchanged numbers for some reason. She texted me out of the blue and asked to borrow money but wanted to meet me at a gas station instead of at the house. I assumed it was so I could just put gas in the tank but went and got cash. She was so squirrelly when I got there and I felt like something was up. I gave her a 50 and I filled her tank. She kept saying I was helping her out so much and no one else would and the she would pay me back. I told her I don't lend money, it's a gift.
I never saw her again. I have no idea what the was about, what she did with the money. I'd nearly forgotten about it. I hope she's okay.
Kelzbelz79 4 years ago
I hope you know just how much you helped this lady and she will forever be grateful to you.
Kay blue 4 years ago
In the UK some of the train companies will give free travel to someone who is fleeing an abusive relationship.
Hilary Anderson 4 years ago
Nationwise now - https://www.womensaid.org.uk/rail-to-refuge/
Load More Replies... David F 4 years ago (edited)
One time I was homeless and this guy comes out of a hotel and hands me a $50 bill and I'm like, what's this for, and he says you deserve it. Just turns the corner and I never see him again. It's really nice to help people out with something than a dollar, you know, $50 is enough for someone to travel and make it. Good for you for helping her out.
#39
I used to walk with a blind student to class in undergrad. He could’ve gotten to class no problem, but said it was easier for him to have someone accompany him and it gave him someone to talk to.
Karin 4 years ago
I was in a class of only 12 people at uni, one of whom was deaf. She read lips, and the prof trimmed his beard and moustache way back but he mumbled and she couldn't understand him. So while he lectured, I would repeat everything silently, and she, sitting across from me, could read my lips. Worked pretty well.
Burs 4 years ago
I met the most wonderful man in Munich’s train station. I was travelling back home from a terrible job and needed to take the train to the airport. He asked me if I could give him directions because his sight was bad (diabetes) and he couldn’t see well the indications (I do not know why he wasn’t offered a companion). We started chatting and it turned out that he also needed to go to the airport and wait many hours for his flight so we travelled there together and spent the night chatting over coffee. He was extremely kind and educated, a retired Princeton professor. We even kept in contact for a while via email but I lost his address. I doubt that he is still alive because he was really old but I think about him from time to time.
#40
Followed a guy from the gas station to a McDonalds 10 minutes away to give him his gas cap that he'd forgotten.
Lynne Stankard 4 years ago
OK I've read all 40 of these - now I need a new box of tissues. A huge THANK YOU to to you all xxx
Roxy Eastland 4 years ago
Aww. Someone once followed me home to tell me my brake lights weren't working. It wasn't at all creepy and I was really grateful for him going out of his way for a stranger.
What do you think ?
Johnny 4 years ago
Here's my story: I was moving and getting rid of an old bed that I knew Salvation Army wouldn't accept (they don't accept bedding), so I posted it on Craigslist. Some guy called almost immediately and said he had to get a truck, but would be there tomorrow. He asked if I can hold it for him and he was really insistent, so I said "sure" - but people on Craigslist are flaky, I didn't think he'd really come. He called the next morning and said he was on his way over. He showed up to get the bed and was so happy, he said that he had just gotten of prison, had a place to live and nothing else, he slept on the floor... I asked him what else he needed and he said "everything". I was in the middle of packing for moving and had a bunch of stuff ready to donate, so I said "wait here", and then I started coming out with boxes of cookware, dishes, sheets, towels, etc... even gave him the couch and TV since I wasn't sure I wanted to haul them to my new place anyway. He was almost in tears.
Johnny 4 years ago
Granted, this wasn't a big sacrifice to me, I was getting rid of most of the stuff anyway, but I like to think it made a real difference to him. Ex-cons have a hard life, they spend years locked away with limited contact with the outside world, then they're set free and expected to make a life on their own with little support, even though the deck is stacked against them.
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Unwelcomed Guest 4 years ago
I once worked as a private nurse caring for end of life patients in their home while on a working holiday in the UK ( paid for by the NHS so for everyone one not rich people). When their time came and they were too sick to be cared for at home I would have to take them to the hospice and was suppose to let my employer know so they would move me onto the next job. If I knew my patient was going to be alone at the hospice I never called into my employer and stayed with them until the end as nobody should ever have to die alone
YoyoSthlm 4 years ago
I JUST saved a dragonfly that had somehow gotten into my bedroom. Made me smile when I saw it fly away.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
At the beginning of the pandemic, when morons were hoarding toilet paper and paper goods in general, I was at Target. I bought a large package of Cottonelle - because the only toilet paper they had left was the really expensive stuff. An elderly lady ahead of me was taking things out of her order because she couldn't afford the toilet paper on top of dish soap, bar soap, and laundry detergent. I just stepped up the the cashier and told her to ring everything up on my credit card. The older lady was shocked, but I told her that it's just what people do, and I wouldn't have considered not doing it.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
I've also paid for groceries that way a few times. I can well afford to do that. I will never miss the money. But having been homeless as a teenager I remember very well what it was like to dig for food in grocery store dumpsters and if I can help someone else so they don't have to do that, I will.
Load More Replies... The Redhead 4 years ago
A few years ago a coworker who had a second child on the way and was having financial issues had his phone cut off. I was secretly pregnant as well (not his), but I hadn't told anyone I was pregnant at that point. I knew I needed to be saving money myself but I I worried about him and his wife so I got him a prepay phone with an additional months payment on it and discreetly gave it to him at work.
Cori 4 years ago
When I figured out Santa wasn't real as a kid, my mom took me to the store to pick out one of the angels from the angel tree. Basically they were little paper angels with the age and gender of a child written on it and a list of what they'd like for Christmas. People could take an angel, buy the items on the list and they would be sent to that child. It made a huge impression on me as it was my first concrete understanding of the consequences of poverty. I took on the tradition as an adult and kept it up every year until I had my own kids and money got tight. I'm hoping to continue it once I get a little more financially stable. Every kid deserves to have something to unwrap on Christmas morning.
Lia Joseph 4 years ago
I live in Toronto were there is a lot of homeless people, and once I was going to Chinatown and decided to treat my son and I to a Slurpee. As I was paying, we heard a commotion outside. 5 teenagers were outside ripping and tearing apart this homeless man's tent. They left and my son and I went over to see if he was okay. He was fine, but his tent, sleeping bag and his small grill were ruined beyond repair. I went to Winners across the street, and found a tent, sleeping bag and some clothes and paid for them. When I came out, he was scrambling around trying to put his tent together. Without a word, I put the bags down in front of him and handed him 50 dollars. He looked at me, and grabbed the bag and looked inside. He cried. "Ever since my son kicked me out because his wife didn't like me, no one has ever been so kind to me" he said through tears. I smiled at him and waved and walked away. Now he works at Canadian Tireand always greets me with a smile
David F 4 years ago (edited)
This happened to me one time. I was homeless and had nothing but the shirt on my back. This guy comes out of restaurant and gives me a salad. So I'm eating on the planter box outside and the waiter says do you want to sit at a table. Im like ok, not really sure if it was the right thing to do, then they gave me water and bread with butter and said take your time. I took the mayonnaise on the table and just smothered the salad with it. I felt like, ohjeez what am doing, but I was starving I hadn't eaten for like three days. The waiters didn't give me a hard time. They were really nice. This was in Oakland, California in Piedmont in November 2016. Thanks for being so nice.
Amina Hays 4 years ago
This isn't the "most selfless" thing I've done but it's relevant I guess. I once found a stamped envelope on the pavement in town and it was addressed to an insurance company. There was obviously a cheque in there and some poor person had dropped it or it fell out of their bag or whatever. I popped it into the nearest post box. That person will never know and I haven't really told anyone I did that because it's a pointless thing to brag about. I've only mentioned it here because it's the subject of the article.
Auntriarch 4 years ago
You're a good person, if only more people were like you, thinking outside your own head and your own comfort.
Load More Replies... Johnny 4 years ago
Here's my story: I was moving and getting rid of an old bed that I knew Salvation Army wouldn't accept (they don't accept bedding), so I posted it on Craigslist. Some guy called almost immediately and said he had to get a truck, but would be there tomorrow. He asked if I can hold it for him and he was really insistent, so I said "sure" - but people on Craigslist are flaky, I didn't think he'd really come. He called the next morning and said he was on his way over. He showed up to get the bed and was so happy, he said that he had just gotten of prison, had a place to live and nothing else, he slept on the floor... I asked him what else he needed and he said "everything". I was in the middle of packing for moving and had a bunch of stuff ready to donate, so I said "wait here", and then I started coming out with boxes of cookware, dishes, sheets, towels, etc... even gave him the couch and TV since I wasn't sure I wanted to haul them to my new place anyway. He was almost in tears.
Johnny 4 years ago
Granted, this wasn't a big sacrifice to me, I was getting rid of most of the stuff anyway, but I like to think it made a real difference to him. Ex-cons have a hard life, they spend years locked away with limited contact with the outside world, then they're set free and expected to make a life on their own with little support, even though the deck is stacked against them.
Load More Replies... Unwelcomed Guest 4 years ago
I once worked as a private nurse caring for end of life patients in their home while on a working holiday in the UK ( paid for by the NHS so for everyone one not rich people). When their time came and they were too sick to be cared for at home I would have to take them to the hospice and was suppose to let my employer know so they would move me onto the next job. If I knew my patient was going to be alone at the hospice I never called into my employer and stayed with them until the end as nobody should ever have to die alone
YoyoSthlm 4 years ago
I JUST saved a dragonfly that had somehow gotten into my bedroom. Made me smile when I saw it fly away.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
At the beginning of the pandemic, when morons were hoarding toilet paper and paper goods in general, I was at Target. I bought a large package of Cottonelle - because the only toilet paper they had left was the really expensive stuff. An elderly lady ahead of me was taking things out of her order because she couldn't afford the toilet paper on top of dish soap, bar soap, and laundry detergent. I just stepped up the the cashier and told her to ring everything up on my credit card. The older lady was shocked, but I told her that it's just what people do, and I wouldn't have considered not doing it.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
I've also paid for groceries that way a few times. I can well afford to do that. I will never miss the money. But having been homeless as a teenager I remember very well what it was like to dig for food in grocery store dumpsters and if I can help someone else so they don't have to do that, I will.
Load More Replies... The Redhead 4 years ago
A few years ago a coworker who had a second child on the way and was having financial issues had his phone cut off. I was secretly pregnant as well (not his), but I hadn't told anyone I was pregnant at that point. I knew I needed to be saving money myself but I I worried about him and his wife so I got him a prepay phone with an additional months payment on it and discreetly gave it to him at work.
Cori 4 years ago
When I figured out Santa wasn't real as a kid, my mom took me to the store to pick out one of the angels from the angel tree. Basically they were little paper angels with the age and gender of a child written on it and a list of what they'd like for Christmas. People could take an angel, buy the items on the list and they would be sent to that child. It made a huge impression on me as it was my first concrete understanding of the consequences of poverty. I took on the tradition as an adult and kept it up every year until I had my own kids and money got tight. I'm hoping to continue it once I get a little more financially stable. Every kid deserves to have something to unwrap on Christmas morning.
Lia Joseph 4 years ago
I live in Toronto were there is a lot of homeless people, and once I was going to Chinatown and decided to treat my son and I to a Slurpee. As I was paying, we heard a commotion outside. 5 teenagers were outside ripping and tearing apart this homeless man's tent. They left and my son and I went over to see if he was okay. He was fine, but his tent, sleeping bag and his small grill were ruined beyond repair. I went to Winners across the street, and found a tent, sleeping bag and some clothes and paid for them. When I came out, he was scrambling around trying to put his tent together. Without a word, I put the bags down in front of him and handed him 50 dollars. He looked at me, and grabbed the bag and looked inside. He cried. "Ever since my son kicked me out because his wife didn't like me, no one has ever been so kind to me" he said through tears. I smiled at him and waved and walked away. Now he works at Canadian Tireand always greets me with a smile
David F 4 years ago (edited)
This happened to me one time. I was homeless and had nothing but the shirt on my back. This guy comes out of restaurant and gives me a salad. So I'm eating on the planter box outside and the waiter says do you want to sit at a table. Im like ok, not really sure if it was the right thing to do, then they gave me water and bread with butter and said take your time. I took the mayonnaise on the table and just smothered the salad with it. I felt like, ohjeez what am doing, but I was starving I hadn't eaten for like three days. The waiters didn't give me a hard time. They were really nice. This was in Oakland, California in Piedmont in November 2016. Thanks for being so nice.
Amina Hays 4 years ago
This isn't the "most selfless" thing I've done but it's relevant I guess. I once found a stamped envelope on the pavement in town and it was addressed to an insurance company. There was obviously a cheque in there and some poor person had dropped it or it fell out of their bag or whatever. I popped it into the nearest post box. That person will never know and I haven't really told anyone I did that because it's a pointless thing to brag about. I've only mentioned it here because it's the subject of the article.
Auntriarch 4 years ago
You're a good person, if only more people were like you, thinking outside your own head and your own comfort.
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