Last month, my husband and baby son and I rode through the McDonald's drive-in as we headed home late at night. We placed a nice order, and it ended up being delicious. We ordered a four piece Chicken McNuggets, small soda, a double Quarter Pounder with cheese meal, and a medium fry and small mocha coffee. These are each special items to me now. As we drove up to pay, the cashier told us that the car in front of us had already paid for our order. "Huh?" I asked. "Are you serious?" The woman smiled and told us yes, it was covered.
My husband and I were shocked and honored. What a surprising gift!
I tried to wave at the man driving the truck in front of us, and beeped our car in a friendly (thankful?) way. The man looked as though he was smiling, and after getting his own food, drove away. I wonder what motivated him that day to 'pay it forward' to us.
Perhaps he was following the Ghandi quote to "Be the change you want to see in the world." What can I do to be more like that driver?
Easy:
Open the door for someone.
Pick up trash from the sidewalk.
Tell your family you love them.
Give a compliment.
When you get to a stop sign at the same time (or a moment before) another car, let them go first.
Wish the cashier a good day.
A bit more work or money:
Put a quarter in the next parking meter you pass by.
Give a lottery ticket to a stranger.
Donate blood.
Put some change in a vending machine.
Make a new friend.
Tip generously.
Check 'yes' when asked if you would become an organ donor.
Call an estranged family member or friend.
Buy a movie ticket for the person behind you in line.
Send a letter of appreciation to a former teacher or mentor.
Can you do one of these today?
