Great story and message.


>A few weeks ago I was channel surfing and happened across a local news story about a woman having trouble getting through to our utility company. she had a utility bill of 500.00 and didn't have the ability to pay, no job and didn't know what she was going to do. This lady was a fellow classmate of mine, and as I recall, the most isolated person in school. She was not attractive, to say the least, and I don't recall ever seeing her talking or hanging with anyone in school. I wrestled with this for a little while before I sent out an email to my fellow classmates about this situation.
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>In the interim, the news station did a follow up story and said several people had called wanting to donate money and one even offered her a job. She also finally got through to the utility assistance people. Well, I figured she still needed some help (good intentions are often not followed through), so I started taking up some money from classmates. There were only about 30 on my email list (out of 550), but we managed to raise 850.00 for her. I kept trying to get someone to take the money over to her so we could remain anonymous, but could never get it worked out. Finally, I thought she probably needs the money more than I need my anonymity. It turns out, she didn't even know me, or didn't recognize me.
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>I think this puts things in perspective when you think about how things aren't that great. I worry about being able to live on investments in 20 years, this woman was worrying about eating today. I'm posting the dialogue from the news reporter and this lady. I think you will find it interesting. If you want a blessing, you might consider helping someone who is less fortunate. I didn't post this to say how great I am, because I know better. I am proud of my fellow classmates for chipping in and helping someone who was never in any click, in crowd, or anything else. This also has her email address in case any of you would like to communicate with her, or better yet, send her some money!
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>=======================================================================
>Hi John,
>I just wanted to forward this email from Kay Canfield. I know you'll appreciate it. You've done a wonderful thing.
>
>Take care,
>
>Nick Paranjape
>Anchor/Reporter
>WMC TV-5 Memphis, TN.
>(901) 726-0449
>nparanjape@wmctv.com
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: kaycan2@bellsouth.net [mailto:kaycan2@bellsouth.net]
>Sent: Saturday, February 10, 2007 9:18 PM
>To: Paranjape, Nick
>Subject: You're awesome!!!!
>Importance: High
>
>Thanks, Nick, for ALL that you did for me. You're so awesome. You know just how to help someone at just the right time they need it. I would not be able to get on with my life if it had not been for you and for what you did. My new job is wonderful. I love it. Renee is so sweet.
>The money I've received is such a big help. I cannot believe the money that one certain guy brought to my apt. It really made me cry. I wish there was some way I could write him a thank you note. I did not have any food or any cat food until I got paid Friday. The guy came by with $850 in an envelope. I was able to go to the store and get some food and some cat food. I really don't deserve all this.
>
>Thanks again Nick for persuading me to have you come and do the story.
>Now I have money and a job and can now pay my bills. I am so happy.
>
>Thanks again.
>
>Kay Canfield