Right when you think you have lost your faith in humanity, something happens to reignite that faith. This is a true story, it happened yesterday on a domestic flight.
A friend of mines husband, we will call him "J" works for a paper company. Friday, he was returning home from a three day business trip. As it is the weekend before Christmas his flight was crowded with holiday travelers, one being a soldier who was going home for Christmas who was seated next to him. The two struck up a conversation, the soldier was entertaining J with some of his experiences being overseas. Just after take off when the "stay in your seats" light when off, the stewardess approached them and told the soldier that a man in First Class wants to trade seats with him. The soldier, politely said its okay, that he was fine sitting in coach.
The stewardess said the man in first class was being a bit persistent, and insisted the soldier have his seat.
The soldier then agreed, got up, shook "Js" hand and moved up to first class. J sat there for a bit with a smile on his face, that is when the first class passenger came back to the seat in coach. J looked at him for a bit, and asked "Why"
The passenger was an elderly man, obviously wealthy, and explained that his son had died in Afghanistan, and he has made it his mission to give back: when he could and as much as he could for our military- including something as trivial as a airline seat "The sacrifices they make, giving up a seat to say Thanks, is the least I can do"........
When I first heard this, I thought about the true meaning of Christmas: "Giving, instead of Receiving" .... With things the way they are in this country, with this "Me, Myself and I" generation. Its good to hear that there are still people out there who do nice things for others....
What a cool story!!
ReplyDeleteIsn't it? We live in a society that is so absorbed with itself. Hearing things like this make me realize there are still people out there who give of themselves.
DeleteIsn't it? We live in a society that is so absorbed with itself. Hearing things like this make me realize there are still people out there who give of themselves.
DeleteMakes me feel kind of bad for the old guy, but I'm sure doing that made him feel better.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I understand it's just his way of expressing his gratitude, his son is gone and I think it helps him keep the memeory alive.
Deletethat is one beautiful christmas story, Gurlie and one that we can all learn from. i am sorry that the man lost his son but it seems that he will keep the memory of him through acts of kindness and giving. there is no better tribute to his son!
ReplyDeletesending much love to you and Senior and the boys! your friend,
kymber
When my friend told me, it brought tears to my eyes.
DeleteMuch love sent right back to you and Jam
Love stories like this one. It shows taht there is still humanity at work in our society. Waaay back when I used to travel monthly, on one flight home from Atlanta, almost the whole first class section traded seats with a group of soldiers that got on after they had already been seated.
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome..
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