You know why I dont give up on Kankakee? Because of good people like this, who live here. Lee Provost lprovost@daily-journal 815-937-3364 | 0 comments A man gets into his car and drives to the Walmart along Illinois Route 50 in Bradley. He waits his turn at the layaway department and then explains to the clerk his intentions. I told her I wanted to pay in full the accounts that were for children, accounts that were buying toys. She was kind of taken aback. She probably thought I was some crazy old guy. The clerk called the store manager, Tina Drane. I was very overwhelmed that there is such generosity out there, Drane said. Surprisingly, Drane said this is not the first time this has happened. Its a blessing that there are great people out there like this. This certainly puts us all in the Christmas spirit, she said. The retired businessman who lives in Bourbonnais and asked not to be identified paid the tabs for about a dozen accounts worth some $1,600. When I wake up in the morning, I want to do something to make someones life better, not worse, he said. Drane began sorting through hundreds of layaway accounts. She found several and the anonymous donor paid each, which ranged from about $100 to more than $300. It was emotional. Its hard to find the right words to describe the feeling. I can tell you this: Im very proud to be a citizen in a community that has people like this, she said. Once completed, the man handed Drane his business card and asked for a call if any other similar accounts popped up. She is keeping that card close to her at all times. We have our own Secret Santa. The man explained that life has been good to him. He and his wife have a family of three successful children. I wanted to give back in some way and what better way than helping little kids. The gift-giver noted he and his wife contribute to a variety of charities. This is my duty, he said. Ive had a decent life. I just think if we all do our part, we can make a difference. You dont start living until you start giving. I know its hard to let go of money. I know there are many people living paycheck to paycheck. But if we all do just a little. He said he didnt feel like Santa Claus, but he said without question he received more satisfaction, more pleasure, than those who will find their accounts paid. There is no question that it feels better to give than receive, he said. The true spirit of giving is not to take credit. The man upstairs wouldnt like that.
Posted on: Fri, 12 Dec 2014 02:39:00 +0000