During Daniel’s daily bike ride, he came across Mrs. Carrino and her son Arnold in the middle of a heated fight. The fight was over her favorite garden, which Arnold wanted to take over but didn’t want to take care of.
As Daniel looked on, Mrs. Carrino lost it, and Arnold stomped off. When the old woman saw Daniel, she told him about her situation: she was moving to a care home and needed someone to water her plants while she was gone. Arnold said he would help, but only if he could take the house.
Daniel felt bad for her and offered to take care of her yard. Mrs. Carrino gladly agreed, and Daniel kept his word by going to the yard every day. He became interested in farming while working and started to think about starting a business.
Daniel was planning to plant azaleas one day when his shovel hit something metal. He found a glass jar with a note inside that said, “Hello, Daniel!” Congratulations, you now own this house. Thanks for your help!” The title to the house, which didn’t have a mortgage, was on the kitchen counter with his name on it.
They would never be the same after getting this gift. While they were visiting Mrs. Carrino, who had become like a grandma to them, Daniel learned how important it is to be kind and not think about himself.
Arnold was supposed to get a second note that told him Mrs. Carrino’s original plan to give him the house. But because he was selfish, she changed her mind, and Daniel got the best gift of his life because he was kind.
This sweet story teaches us important lessons:
Entitlement is worse than selflessness. Daniel’s kindness got him a place to live, but Arnold’s greed cost him everything.
Don’t take on an estate. Don’t take for granted the things your parents worked hard for.
Little things can have big effects on people’s lives. Daniel’s family and he got a new life after he promised to water plants.
Spread kindness and thanks by telling this story to your family and friends.
What do you think Daniel’s story teaches you?
