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About 10 years ago I was regularly withdrawing small sums of money every month, looking a bit poor, with old clothes, sometimes a bit torn or dirty. The bank teller just offered to give me a pair of winter shoes. I felt uncomfortable so I didn't take them, but thanked him anyway. I could've used them, but I think he probably offered them to someone else later on who needed them more than I did.

I didn't have any prior relationship with him, except going to him to give him my ID so I can get the money a few times.





I worked at a YMCA as a young man, and I once bought a pair of shoes for a kid who was embarrassed of theirs.

It didn't go as well as I thought it would--her mom was embarrassed and then out-did me--but it still felt really good to give them.

So for anyone reading, it can feel as good to give a kindness as to receive one. Don't shy!


> it can feel as good to give a kindness as to receive one

True - I love giving gifts and helping people more than receiving them or getting help. But it's still awkward/uncomfortable to receive help.

> her mom was embarrassed and then out-did me

Out-did you how? Did she buy better shoes for the kid? Or did she give you a gift?


Yeah, she took the kid and let her pick out her favorite pair.

I had picked for her, and I'm not a girl. I think the new ones had lights.

I will say the kid cried happy tears and thanked me and beamed all day long the first day. She was 8.


You did great.



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