Henry’s heart broke. He didn’t have much—just the money he had earned that month from his handmade shoes and repairs. Yet, when he looked at Samantha, he didn’t hesitate.
“How much do you need?” he asked softly.
“Four hundred dollars,” she whispered.
Henry reached into his faded pants and pulled out a small bundle. It was every cent he had earned. Slowly, he placed it in her hands.
“Take it,” he said with a weak smile. “Pay your school fees. And remember—study hard, don’t follow bad influences. You can do great things.”
Samantha’s eyes widened. “Sir, are you sure?”
“Yes, child,” Henry nodded. “Don’t forget my name. Promise me you’ll work hard.”
“I will, sir. One day, I’ll make you proud,” she said, clutching the money. Henry placed his hand on her head and whispered a prayer before returning to his small shed, still with no food for himself, but a full heart.
Samantha ran to school and paid her fees, clutching the receipt. At home, she explained everything to her relieved mother, who was shocked by the kindness of a stranger. “God bless that man,” her mother whispered.