Christmas is a time for giving and sharing

I usually write a story about the Christmas spirit on this day. Here is a very old story written more than a decade back repeated   for the benefit of my many new readers and the pleasure of my  regular motivators

The teller in the bank was surprised when he saw a tiny hand proffering a few soiled notes in denominations of one, five and ten. He looked at the figure. A young boy of ten years in much worn and tattered shirt held together by a safety pin was looking at the teller with some anxiety. “Sir, can you please give me 20 five rupee coins instead of that”’ the small voice squeaked.

“Why do you need the five rupee coins. They are in short supply you know” said the teller curious to know the purpose.

“Tomorrow is Christmas. I want to give to the poor who assemble before the church” he said.

“You don’t yourself look well provided for. A new shirt would do good for you” said the teller and continued, ”How did you get this money, by the way?”

“Sir, this money was actually saved by me over the year for getting me a new shirt. But there are many needy even without a shirt. My teacher told me yesterday that Christmas is for giving and sharing,” he answered.

The teller was overcome with emotion at the lofty young mind before him. He wiped his eyes and said “I will add 20 more coins to your 20 as my share. Please distribute to the needy tomorrow at the church and elsewhere.One more thing, do meet me after lunch today here at the bank. I have a small Christmas gift for you. I am impressed with you. What is your name?”

“Thank you, Sir. Santosh is my name. I will surely come after lunch” he replied as he left after collecting 40  glistening new five rupee coins.

In the afternoon the boy was surprised to see the teller telling him, “Though young, you taught me the true message of Christmas. Thank you very much” and handed him a packet containing a new shirt and shorts.

May the miracle of Christmas fill your heart with warmth and love. Christmas is a time of giving and sharing. It is the time of loving and forgiving. Merry Christmas to Everyone!