“Children listen to our words but learn from our actions!”~UNK
My doorbell rang and I was greeted with:
“Hi, Ma’am, I am unemployed. I am looking for work and brought my boys with me. I don’t want them to see me at home doing nothing when I am able and capable of working and want to work.” I did notice that he had what appeared to be 4 teenage boys. He also said, “I would rather be out here going door to door than sitting at home waiting on a hand out.”
These words were spoken (nervously stuttered) by a Male that came to my doorstep and mulched my flowerbeds. A scam? Perhaps, but his attitude and his perseverance left me speechless. He spoke to me as if he knew I was going to say “No” to his work proposition (of mulching flowerbeds) but he had a convincing point! I could not turn away a person that was so focused on working and setting the example for His children.
At all time low in our economy when our unemployment rate is at a high! I saw a spark of hope! This Hard Working Male exemplified the Hard Working American people!
He reminded me that we live in the land of opportunity and exploiting the possibilities is up to us!
I’m not judging in any way! The unemployment and economic crisis devastates me but I learned a lot on this day when I said “Yes” to hard working American that was looking to earn his pay! What a great example he was setting for His children!
Are your actions speaking the true example that you would like to be for your children? What is the example you would like to set?
Bravo to you! What a wonderful example! molly
I can relate to where this guy is coming from. My daughter and I will pick up cans just to make a dollar. The economy is very bad, but there are so many people out there that exploit it. I have a neighbor that has been signing up for unemployment for over two years now. Every day he sits on his front porch starting at ten in the morning drinking. He doesn’t want to work.
I could write a book on my views of how people in America act and their values lol.
Nice post!
Wonderful post! A great example for every one, no job should ever be beneath any of us.
Francis. That’s the unfortunate reality of a down economy. A scene that’s all too familiar around the US as we adjust to the downturn. As an eternal optimist, I think the economy has turned but will be some time before the trickle down gives employers the confidence they can begin hiring. That being said, kudos to you for rewarding good old-fashioned hard work and initiative. Cheers, TW
I am on optimist myself Todd and keep hoping for the best!
I agree Florentina! True words were spoken to me that day: “I am able and willing to work!” We will do what we have to for the sake of our family!
It made me smile to read about you and your daughter! What a wonderful way to get our children involved and in tune with what is going on! Love it! As for your neighbor..I it should be in him to seek change! What a bummer!
Thanks Molly! It brought tears to my eyes and showed me how far a little perseverance will take us!
Bravo to you for saying yes and to him for not just waiting for work. Sad that today we have to wonder if it is a scam or not.
What a great post, Francis! I love that you remind us…it’s those small things, the actions that our “gut” tells us are the right thing to do. I absolutely believe that our children emulate our actions. Just think of the great example you gave your kids by saying “yes” to this man! Bravo.
The man is this post is really setting a great example for his sons. The sad part is that this is really what everyone should be doing. It should be the norm not the exception and I think too many times, it is the exception. Too many have had parents that were not as good of an example as this man.
I remember a similar situation with someone coming to our door when I was a kid. I had doubts about what he was selling and told my dad.
My dad said that didn’t matter. That he was out of a job and trying to find his own way to pay the bills was enough in my dad’s view.
Thank You James! I couldn’t agree with you more and you seem to have had the great example of your Father! Great job by your Dad!
Kudos to both you and this gentleman! Really it doesn’t matter if this man was scamming (if it was true, although I like to believe not) really because you chose what your heart told you. We all need to be part of the solution during tough times and those that share what they have (this includes providing some sort of employment) I believe show a priceless lesson to younger people. Your post lifted my heart today Francis (as always)
What a great post – sometimes God shows up when you least expect him. That split second decision can impact life for all involved. I pray I hear the call when it comes.