A wealthy man once insulted 14-year-old Martin, a poor shoe shiner, saying, “My dog could do a better job with his tongue!” Despite working hard to support his paralyzed mother and sister, Martin was left unpaid by the man, Sylvester. The next day, Sylvester was choking in his car, and Martin saved him by breaking the window and helping him breathe again. Sylvester, shocked by Martin’s kindness despite their previous encounter, offered him money as thanks. Martin only asked for the $7 he was owed, showing humility.
Sylvester later left a bag of cash on Martin’s doorstep with a note: “You deserve a happy childhood.” Martin, torn between accepting the money and his pride, ultimately decided to take it for his family’s sake. He remembered his father’s lessons and chose to continue helping his family, making their lives better.
