THE GOOD SAMARITAN
The envelope was neatly tucked in the left corner of Mrs. Nolan’s desk. Clearly written in bold black ink were the words: “FOR MARISOL’S SURGERY.” Mrs. Nolan’s heart thudded in her chest; her hands shook uncontrollably as she opened the sealed envelope. By now her heart was pounding in her chest like the drumming of heavy rain. She sat down, perplexed and very happy at the same time.
The bell rang and the 5th graders came rushing into the classroom. The children sat in their seats.
Marisol’s best friend raised her hand and asked, “How much more money do we need to raise for Marisol’s surgery?”
Mrs. Nolan’s face flushed with excitement and responded, “We have all of it, and someone donated the remaining $15,000.00”
“Whoa”, bellowed the entire class.
“Wow Mrs. Nolan was it your husband that donated the money?” asked the children. “No”, replied Mrs. Nolan.
Unable to sit still the class echoed loudly, “Who was it then?” a Good Samaritan announced Mrs. Nolan.
Two weeks have gone by and no one has been able to figure out who donated the money for Marisol’s surgery. The news about the Good Samaritan spread like a spark set to dry grass. Meanwhile Marisol’s mom and dad were extremely grateful because their daughter can now have the much needed surgery that will save her life.
After having been in surgery for several hours, Marisol lay listless in her hospital bed.
“I promise you she will be fine”, explained Dr. Smith. “I was able to remove the entire tumor and she should make a complete recovery.”
“Thank you so very much Dr. Smith”, answered Marisol’s parents.
Marisol’s illness made major headlines in the local newspaper. Marisol’s classmates came up with the idea of raising money because her dad lost his job along with medical coverage.
The Good Samaritan’s heart was as sunny and bright as the sun that melted the final remnant of last month’s snow. He stood near the south window of his lavish office admiring the daffodils and crocuses that were in full bloom. His lips quirked a huge smile as he read the headlines: Local 5th grader made full recovery from major brain surgery. Thanks to all who helped raise $35,000.00 and thanks to the secret Good Samaritan who donated the remaining $15,000.00. Mr. & Mrs. Parker are asking for the person who donated the $15,000.00 to please come forward so they can thank you in person. This happy moment whisked the tall stranger back to 1980. He will never forget the bright rays of happiness that made his heart glow. His mom was near death when a total stranger appeared out of no where and donated all the money for her surgery. The surgery saved his mom life and at the young age of sixteen he vowed to do the same for someone else someday. The tall stranger carefully pondered his next move: Now that the little girl is fully recovered, I will pay a visit to the family.
Life returned to normal for the Parkers. Marisol was able to return back to school after spring break. Mr. Parker was now employed; he did not have to worry about not having medical insurance. Now, the only thing left is to find the Good Samaritan, so he can thank him or her face to face.
Mrs. Parker was in the kitchen preparing supper when the door bell rang.
“Can you please answer the door”, hollered Mrs. Parker.
“Good evening young lady, are your parents home?”
“Please come in”, replied Marisol politely. The tall stranger followed Marisol to the living room.
“I am very happy to see my money was put to good use, since you have made a full recovery.”
Mrs. Parker gasped, “You’re the man who donated the money!”
“Hello, I am Steven Rolland.” He said smiling.
Marisol eyes blazed with joy and she ran towards Mr. Rolland and gave him a huge bear hug and said, “Thank you so much for your kindness, I will never forget you as long as I live.”
Mr. & Mrs. Parker stood motionless trying their very best to find the words to thank this wonderful human being who helped save their daughter’s life.
After endless seconds of indecision Mr. & Mrs. Parker muttered, “We thank you so very much for showing compassion in our time of need.”
“I learned a long time ago if you have the opportunity to offer the hand of friendship to someone in need you should do it. Twenty-seven years ago someone did the same for my mother”, replied Mr. Rolland.
Mr. Rolland gracefully accepted the Parker’s invitation to stay for supper. The peach cobbler they ate for dessert was as sweet and warm as the feeling they all had inside.
Nicole Weaver2007©All rights reserved
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