Aman's long workday made him late for the bus. His hurried departure left a strange emptiness in his pocket. His wallet was missing and a thorough search proved fruitless. All of his identification, his cash and several of his bank cards were inside, so he panicked.
Scanning the busy streets, he checked his route. The completely indifferent crowd, oblivious to his deep distress, flowed onward like a mighty river. Several shadows felt like clues and some sounds felt like distractions. The city's noise drowned him out, even though he muttered, "It must be here somewhere."
He searched many places, but at a small tea stall he finally spotted his wallet under a table. Nearby, a boy, not yet ten, watched Aman closely. Aman's approach caused the boy to rise and offer the wallet.
The boy smiled shyly. He said, “You dropped this.”
Aman was completely surprised and entirely stunned. “Thank you!” Your help was indispensable and you were a lifesaver.
The boy lifted his shoulders slightly and he shrugged. It is of no consequence; I observed that you were somewhat worried.
Aman's wallet was opened by him. Everything remained intact. It was perfectly so. Relieved, he withdrew a meaningful sum of money, then gave it to the boy.
The boy shook his head firmly and he refused. I do not need any of it; please pass all of it on someday.
Aman felt grateful watching the boy disappear into the crowd.
The following morning, Aman assisted a struggling mother. He helped her carry several heavy grocery bags to her car, remembering the boy's words.
Even small acts of kindness can have surprisingly large and unexpected effects.
