Paying it Forward

Happy Sunday! 

In a world where often negativity is highlighted and tensions are high, it is time to pay it forward.

Last night, on my train ride home from dinner in the city, I was minding my own business and scrolling through Instagram when the conductor came around to punch our tickets.  I, as did many other passengers gave the conductor our ticket and continued to do our own thing. The conductor got to two African American girls, probably around the age of 21 – one seemed a little intoxicated, while the other not so much. They told the conductor they forgot to buy a ticket and offered to buy it on the train. They did not realize the cost since on the train there is an increase in price. They only had $13 in cash. They were honest with the conductor and told him that they would get off at the next stop.

After a few minutes of back and forth with the conductor, a white man who was probably in his late 20s, early 30s, who was sitting in the seats in front of the girls, spoke up and told the conductor he would like to pay for the remainder of the cost of the tickets. He said he did not want them standing out in the cold trying to find a way home if they could not afford the train. The girls were shocked and couldn’t believe there was someone in today’s world who would do that for them.  As they thanked him,  all he said to the girls was to pay it forward next time they see someone in need. 

Well, to say the least I couldn’t stop smiling. That moment reignited my faith for the good in humanity. With the cultural and political climate in today’s society, you don’t always hear or see those types of acts, but I am sure glad I experienced it. 

I challenge you to pay it forward, the same way that man challenged those girls.

“Gifts aren’t to be paid back, but to be paid forward.” 

xoxoKristin