Spread Love and Joy in Society
Alex was singing cheerfully on his way home. Why? Because this was his first school day since he moved to a new flat in a new community. He was getting used to his new school life and his new classmates. He was so proud of himself.
In order to know more about the living environment, Alex walked through every street to discover anything interesting here. Most of the stores were not significantly different from others except one which was so special and drew the attention of Alex. He noticed that there was a long queue in front of a shop which sold congee. What was more was that all those who were lining up were elderly people. The curiosity of Alex was raised. There was “a question mark” hanging in his mind. “Why are so many senior people gathering there?” He took the initiative to have a chat with the owner of the shop, intending to find out more.
When the long queue disappeared and all the elderly had settled down, Alex took a step forward to the cashier. He saw a tall middle-aged man, with tattoos on both arms. Alex was totally frightened by the appearance of the man. His body was shivering as well as his mouth. He started to stammer in hesitation, “Ex…..excuse me, may I ask why there were so many elderlies lining up just now? The lunch time has passed already.” The tall man replied to him in a friendly tone, “Because they were enjoying free congee.” Alex’s eyes widened showing great curiosity but remained too timid to raise any further questions to the strong built man in front of him. The man realized that the little boy was afraid of him and kept on speaking, “Are you a new comer to this neighbourhood? I haven’t seen you before.” Alex nodded his head silently. The man then continued. “Take a seat here, boy. Let me tell you more about here.” Alex followed him and sat down.
The tall man put down a bowl of congee in front of Alex. He said, “Try my food. It’s a treat for you.” The smell of it was so good. Alex couldn’t wait to have a try. While he was eating, the man explained about his store. “I am the owner of this congee shop. I have been doing business here for decades. In this estate, more and more people living here become old. Many of them have served our society for nearly a century. Therefore, it’s time for me to serve them back. We insist on providing free congee for the elderly every Monday. We try to ensure that each of them could enjoy a bowl of hot congee every week.”
Alex raised a question, “Won’t you lose money if you do this every week?” The owner replied, “That’s the truth undoubtedly. However, the monetary profits can never be compared to the smile on the seniors’ faces. Just like now, I see you are eating with joy, and it brings me much happiness too!” “Can I place an order please?” said one of the customers. “I have to do my work. Enjoy your time in here!” He left with a smile.
For sure, it is not a must for the owner to provide free congee for the elderlies. However, due to his kindness, many respectable seniors are benefited. With good people and good deeds, happiness and joyfulness are spreading in our society!