Ethan, a 10-year-old boy, was walking home from school when he saw a shivering old man holding a cardboard sign asking for help. With only $10 left in his pocket—saved for a new soccer ball—Ethan gave it to the man anyway. The old man smiled, and Ethan ran home feeling proud of his choice.
A month later, Ethan received a mysterious letter on fancy paper, sealed with wax and stamped with a gold crest. The letter thanked him for his kindness and invited him on an adventure. Ethan showed it to his mom, and the next day a black car arrived.
Ethan and his parents were taken to a luxurious estate, where the old man—now wearing a tailored suit—welcomed them warmly. Over dinner, he asked what Ethan’s parents needed most. They replied that they wanted him to have a good education.
Eight years later, Ethan earned straight A’s, volunteered, and tutored others. When he was accepted into MIT, a wooden chest appeared at his doorstep. Inside was a scholarship confirmation and a note from the old man, Mr. Albrecht.
Ethan’s life changed because of a single act of kindness. As his father said, “All that… from who you chose to be when no one was watching.”
