A $20 bill

[vaneramos]

More than a week ago now


I grew up living comfortably. By some standards my parents were wealthy, but above all they were careful, so we had enough money for everything we needed, and most things we wanted. They have never been in debt. I was taught to depend on family for everything, never anyone else.

Recent events recalled an image from my childhood. We had close friends, the Scotts, who lived in Deerborn, Michigan. My father had met Don Scott working at Ford in Windsor when they were young. Sue Scott was one of my best childhood friends (hers was the only Barbie I ever played with) and our several annual visits were happily anticipated.

I remember Dad and Don arguing amiably over a $20 bill. The Scotts had done us a favour, perhaps run an errand, and Dad was trying to give him gas money. It might have been the other way around. Either way, both men refused to keep it. Finally, Dad tore it up and threw it in the fireplace. The four adults laughed. That must have been about 1974.

Considering what I live on now, $20 is appreciable. But rarely can I accept kindness from anyone without remembering that torn-up bill.

Comments

[fivecats.livejournal.com]

That's a great story.

Thanks for sharing it.

...

[vaneramos.livejournal.com]

You're welcome. It reminds me how much impact my small actions as a parents can have. On the other hand, if I worried too much about everything I did, I wouldn't get any sleep. ;-)