Pay it Forward

I read an online news article a few months ago about a person in a drive-thru line paying the check for the car behind them. Total strangers. Why? Just because they wanted to; just to 'Pay it Forward.' The idea has intrigued me ever since.

I have always wanted to do something to 'Pay it Forward,' but was never quite sure how or when was the right time and place to do it. Would opportunity knock?

Yesterday I heard the knocking growing loud and clear. Like an African drum beat. Here's your chance, here's your chance, here's your chance.

I was sitting in a restaurant by myself. At the table across from me sat a young woman in her early 30's. She smiled a small smile as I sat down. I returned the smile. As I sat there reading my menu, ordering food and beginning my meal, I noticed that she seemed pre-occupied by her phone and a distant look in her eyes. A woman from another table came over, squatted down beside her chair and gave her a hug. The talked quietly for a moment or two. Then the young woman burst into quiet tears. They talked and hugged for a few minutes until the second woman returned to her table.

As I sat there quietly eating my meal, I wondered what had caused her such distress. A death in the family? A broken relationship? A serious health problem? My heart ached for her. She obviously was having a very bad day, but was trying to keep her composure. I wanted to help her, but it was really none of my business. How could I help without interfering?

In the back of my mind the slow beat of the drum grew louder and louder: pay it forward, pay it forward, pay it forward. As it continued to grow louder, I realized what I needed to do.

I finished my meal quickly, picked up my check and took it to the cashier up front. I inquired as to whether or not she could tell from my check where I was sitting. "Oh, yes!" she said. I pointed out the table next to mine in the back of the restaurant where the lone woman still sat. I said, "She's having a really bad day. I do not know her, but I'd like to pay her bill. Can you do that?" Although she looked at me a little strangely, she pulled up a copy of a 2nd check on the register. She showed it to me, and said "Are you sure? Is this amount ok?" "Absolutely!" I replied. I paid the two bills, added a generous tip and left the restaurant quickly.

I felt good. I know I couldn't take away her hurt, but at least I hope I was able to make her day just a tiny bit better. Maybe someday she will have the opportunity to 'Pay it Forward' too.