He paid me back with more than money

By Fr. Bob Malloy

I just came in on a Saturday afternoon to get some quiet work done, and a hand waved at me from a vehicle parked on the street.  I recognized the car and the man “Thomas” who owed me a little loan I had given him to get through the month.  Today is the first of the month.  He gladly paid me back adding an extra $5.00 in gratitude, and we chatted.  He had more car troubles that he is addressing, and the car is his home.  I gave back the $5.00 saying, “I think you need this more than I do right now.”  He humbly and gratefully accepted it as he talked about getting some food to eat. 

Continuing our discussion, he commented that people should just quit making fun of others.  Ha added: “That person you put down might just be the one who would save your life; you never know.”  He decried the bullying that goes on in our world and the shooting that often results.

And, as we finished our visit, he said, “We just need some common sense!  Do the right thing, and as Aretha says, respect.  And, we can call on God—He’s the first really.  At 65 I’ve gained some wisdom, and I hope I’m headed in the place.  I don’t want to go to hell.”

I replied, “Thomas, I don’t think you have to worry about that.”  I went away feeling better for being in his presence.  His spirit of Godly joy and positive insight speaks for itself.