As the author approached their 50th birthday, they decided to do something different: instead of celebrating themselves, they would celebrate others. They prepared fifty envelopes with cash and invitations, planning fifty random acts of kindness.
Two moments stood out:
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At a gas station, they noticed a young couple struggling to afford gas while trying to reach family for a funeral. The author paid for their tank, giving them relief and comfort. The man broke down crying, overwhelmed by the unexpected kindness.
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At a Goodwill store, an older man was hesitantly shopping for a shirt before a critical job interview. The author bought him a full outfit, including a suit, tie, and shoes, so he could feel confident for the opportunity.
The rest of the day included smaller acts—paying for food, leaving money for strangers—but those two moments had the deepest impact. By giving, the author realized the profound joy and meaning in selfless generosity, making their milestone birthday unforgettable.
