It was a typical day at the sporting goods store where I worked. A father and his 11-year-old son walked in, looking for camping equipment for the boy’s first Boy Scout campout. I helped them navigate the aisles, explaining the different types of gear they would need. The boy was excited, and his enthusiasm was infectious.
As we shopped, I shared stories of my own experiences as an Eagle Scout. The boy listened with wide eyes, and I could see the excitement building up inside him. His father, on the other hand, looked like a fish out of water. It was clear that he was not familiar with camping gear, and I had to explain everything to him in detail.
As we finished up the shopping, the total came out to be over $200. The father’s face fell, and I could see the shock and fear in his eyes. He looked like he was about to break the news to his son that they couldn’t afford the gear. But I had an idea.
I knocked 20% off the total, citing the Scout motto “A scout is helpful and kind.” The father was overwhelmed with gratitude, and the boy beamed with excitement. As they left the store, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction.
Little did I know that this chance encounter would have a profound impact on the lives of this father and son. Over the next year, they became regulars at the store, and I watched as the boy grew into a confident and capable young man.
The boy’s father, who had been through a difficult divorce, found solace in Scouting and became an assistant scoutmaster. The experience helped him to heal and become a better person. As for the boy, he went on to earn his Eagle Scout award and is now pursuing a career in law enforcement.
I still keep in touch with him, and I couldn’t be prouder of the young man he has become. It just goes to show that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact on people’s lives.
