A cold-hearted landlord gives a woman an eviction notice for being short on rent, but when he attends a family dinner at his sister’s house, he is shocked to find her there.
Life is tough, and even tougher when the people around us lack compassion. Diane Salinger knew hardship. At sixty-two, she had lived through more dark days than bright ones, shedding countless tears along the way.
But Diane wasn’t one to give up. Each time life knocked her down, she picked herself back up and pressed forward. She had lost her husband three years ago, then a tornado destroyed her home. But she didn’t dwell in despair—she started fresh.
Diane used her savings to buy a small grocery store in a charming town in Michigan. It was the perfect place: big enough for her to sell some exotic items but small enough to maintain a warm, close-knit atmosphere.
While the town felt cozy and inviting, her landlord, Chris Turkle, was anything but warm. Chris rented Diane a small apartment near her store. She had always been a reliable tenant: quiet, respectful, and punctual with her rent. But one month, Diane came up \$120 short.
When Chris counted the money from the envelope and saw the shortage, he waved it in her face. “You’re \$120 short, Mrs. Salinger,” he said coldly.
Diane blushed, explaining, “Since many small businesses have been struggling due to Covid, I extended credit to some families in need. This month, I’m a bit behind, but I’ll pay you the \$120 in two weeks.”
Chris sneered. “If you’re playing saint, that’s your problem. I’m a businessman, not a charity. I want you out by the end of the week.”
“But Mr. Turkle…” Diane tried to reason, “It’s just for a week, and it won’t happen again!”
Chris dismissed her with a cold, “It happened once, and that’s enough. You’re OUT.” And with that, he turned and left, feeling justified in his decision. He had seen how busy her store was, with customers flocking in for fresh produce and a popular deli section. He muttered to himself, “Short on cash, huh? More like taking advantage.”
That evening, Chris went to his sister Vanessa’s house for a family dinner. Vanessa was his favorite sibling, and he often worried about her. She worked two jobs to support herself and her 16-year-old son, Joss. Chris had offered to give Joss a weekend job, but Vanessa always declined, insisting, “I’ll make do.”
As it was Joss’ birthday, Chris tucked a \$20 bill into an envelope and made his way to Vanessa’s house, just three blocks away. When he knocked, Vanessa greeted him warmly. The delicious smell of dinner wafted from the kitchen.
“Hey there!” he said, kissing her on the cheek. “Where’s the birthday boy?”
“Playing video games with Diane!” Vanessa replied, smiling. “Come on in!”
Chris froze as Diane walked down the stairs. There, in front of him, was his tenant—the one he had just evicted. She looked completely at ease, greeting him with a cool smile.
“Hello,” Diane said. “Nice to meet you. I didn’t know you were Vanessa’s brother…”
Chris blushed, flustered. “Uh… Yes, my younger sister…you know\…”
Vanessa called to everyone: “Come on down! The roast will get cold!”
“Roast!” Joss exclaimed. “That’s my favorite! But mom, I know you only get paid next week. How are we going to afford this?”
Diane smiled and reassured him, “Don’t worry about that. Your mom’s credit is good with me. This smells amazing, and I’m starving!”
Chris leaned in, whispering, “Is Vanessa one of the people you’re helping?”
Diane smiled. “She’s one of them. Maybe she didn’t tell you, but one of her jobs fell through, so I’m helping until she’s back on her feet.”
Chris felt a wave of guilt wash over him. “I’m so sorry about…you know\… But why doesn’t Vanessa come to me for help?”
Diane answered softly, “We all have our pride. Vanessa wants to stand on her own and provide for Joss. Asking a friend for help is one thing—asking a family member for charity is another.”
Chris whispered, “I’ll tell you what—starting now, you can have the apartment at half-price. Think of it as an investment in the town and in my sister.”
By the end of the evening, Chris had learned that Diane was a charming and delightful woman. He genuinely enjoyed her company. That night, his perception of his community changed. Inspired by Diane, Chris decided to be more generous and offer a helping hand to others in need.