It was one of those cold winter days where the snow just keeps falling, covering everything in a thick, white blanket. The kind of day that makes even the simplest chore — like shoveling the sidewalk — feel like climbing a mountain.
Mardis, my partner, was inside the house when the doorbell rang. Looking out the window, he saw two young boys, probably not taller than the waist of an average adult, standing there bundled up in winter coats, hats, and mittens. They were clearly ready for some work.
Mardis, always a bit protective and hesitant about strangers, especially kids, answered the doorbell through the speaker and told them he would take care of the snow himself.
You all know how I feel about kids, though. I believe in giving them a chance, encouraging their spirit, and supporting their entrepreneurial ideas. So, I quickly ran downstairs, called the boys back, and asked, “How much would you charge to shovel the snow?”
Their faces lit up immediately, proud and eager. “Ten dollars!” they said in unison, their voices full of hope and excitement.
I smiled and told them, “Go ahead and enjoy yourselves.”
And enjoy themselves they did.
With their own small shovels and brooms, they set to work tackling the snowy path outside our home — the very chore that Mardis and I had been dreading. It was refreshing to see such enthusiasm for a task that neither of us wanted to do.
Not only did they clear the sidewalk, but the boys also shook out the rugs by the door, making sure everything was spotless. As they worked, they chatted happily about their day and how they were looking forward to watching Spider-Man when they got back home.
When they were finished, I was so impressed by their hard work and positive attitude that I decided to give them double the amount they asked for — twenty dollars instead of ten.
Their eyes grew wide with joy, and that extra bit of appreciation sparked a hilarious response. They didn’t just pack up and leave — no, they went right back to shoveling snow that wasn’t even there, creating perfect edges along the walkway. They shook out the rugs again, laughing and having fun with the whole experience.
Finally, they knocked gently on the door to let me know they were done — wanting to make sure I approved of their work. Their smiles said it all.
As I stood there, watching these two young boys who could have easily stayed inside, warm and cozy, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. They reminded me that sometimes the smallest moments and the simplest acts of determination and kindness can brighten even the coldest days.
So, don’t listen to Uncle Mardis when he says he’ll do it himself. Auntie Quisha’s got you covered — and I’m already looking forward to seeing those two back on Friday, ready to shovel again!
