Paying it Forward

By Patti Habeck, Executive Vice President, Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin

You have the ability to make a difference in the world just by recognizing an opportunity when it arises. Mine came to me today.

I was in a terrible rush this morning, and left the house without making breakfast. I decided to drive through Starbucks, and ordered a sandwich and tea–total cost? $6.20. When I arrived at the window to pay, I realized that I had forgotten my purse at home. Feeling embarrassed, I told the barista my situation, and said I would drive home and return with the money. Perhaps she sensed the day I was having because she smiled and handed me my order saying that this one was on them and to have a good day. I was shocked and surprised, and promised to return with the money. She said it wasn’t necessary, and hoped my morning got better.

What she didn’t know is that I work at Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, a nonprofit where we work to provide healthy, nutritious meals to those facing hunger. Upon arriving at work today, I made a donation to Feeding America in honor of my local Starbucks. They gave me one meal, and because of their kindness, 100 people will receive meals from Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin!

Good deeds multiply. How will you make a difference today? How will you pay forward a kindness that was shown to you?