Bobby Puryear’s story is a heartwarming reminder that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on people’s lives. It all started during the holidays when Bobby decided to visit an ATM to withdraw some cash. Little did he know that this routine matter would lead to a series of events that would touch the hearts of many and restore faith in the kindness of strangers.
As Bobby approached the ATM, he noticed something unusual – there was a significant amount of money left in the cash register. His initial astonishment quickly turned into a moral dilemma. He remembered the saying, “Finders keepers, losers cry,” but he also knew that $500 wasn’t much for someone. Despite the temptation to keep it to himself, Bobby made a decision that set the tone for the entire story – he would do the right thing.
Admittedly, the phrase is not very nice, especially in this situation, but the bank can probably do something to determine who the owner is!
He went to the bank to talk to someone who could help him because he was desperate to get the money back to its rightful owner. When he arrived at the bank, he told the teller that he had discovered the money. What happened?
She refused to accept the money when he tried to hand it to her; she asked for a manager instead!
When the manager arrived he just asked what the man was supposed to do with the money.
Puryear was genuinely confused; after all, he had some strange dream, didn’t he? To return the money, he asked if he could see who had used the ATM before him.
The manager then gave his OK and Puryear shared the information on Facebook. The boss also had Puryear’s phone number.
The very next day he got a call from the bank saying they had found the owner of the cash while he was at work.
He was on a conference call with a manager and Edith, a 92-year-old woman who lost money. Without the $500, Edith would be sad and angry. What a terrible thing it would be to lose $500, especially given her financial situation!
Edith was so grateful that she wanted to pay Puryear back the $20 she didn’t need for the rent. There’s only so much money left!
I told her flat out no and have a nice day, Puryear added.
He realized he only had this for the rest of the month as he hung up the phone – just $20! That didn’t feel right at all, honestly.
Puyear called the bank manager a second time and ordered him to transfer $200 from his account to the elderly woman’s account; how sweet!
A co-worker watched him speak to the bank and was moved by what he heard. He and the other co-workers also gave to the elderly woman, and the co-worker informed Puryear that he also wanted to give $100!
Puryear was touched that someone else shared his feelings, but little did he know that it was just the beginning.
About an hour later, the bank contacted Puryear again. This time it was the manager who informed him that after telling the story to all the storytellers, they all came together and contributed another $300!
Puryear wrote on Facebook: “So today was a nice day…Merry Christmas a little early Edith.
This person’s simple act of goodwill in returning ATM cash to its rightful owner has evolved into something much bigger and more admirable.
How amazing is it that after posting all of this on Facebook, it has been shared over 180,000 times worldwide?
In today’s world where many individuals seem to only look out for themselves, Puryear went straight to Facebook to explain his actions. This act is even kinder and motivating for all of us!
This small act was so sincere and considerate that it really touched everyone who read the story!
This small but meaningful act of returning lost money resonated with people from all walks of life. Bobby’s words, “I know it’s a little thing, but just think if everyone did something nice for someone every day,” is a call to action. They invite us to imagine the collective impact of small acts of kindness performed by individuals everywhere.
While Bobby couldn’t afford to do such acts often, the $200 he transferred to Edith’s account made a big difference to her. It ensured that he wouldn’t starve or catch a cold, especially during the holidays.
Bobby Puryear’s story is a shining example of how one person’s integrity and compassion can inspire a ripple effect of kindness and generosity. It reminds us all that no matter the circumstances, we can make a positive difference in the lives of others through simple acts of kindness and empathy. In a world often characterized by division and self-interest, Bobby’s story is a beacon of hope and a testament to the inherent goodness in us all.