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Pay It Forward, Silent Need Brings Silent Assistance

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Real Estate Agent

Pay It Forward, Silent Need Brings Silent Assistance

 

Pay It ForwardIn today's economy uncertainty reigns, which makes being the family's sole provider a very difficult job.  But, what happens when the family's only financial resource comes to an end?  How does one cope?  Who will pay the rent or mortgage?  How will you afford your medication?  Should you tell anyone?  Borrow money from anyone?  If so, who?  Many of your family members and friends have been forced into the same scenario.  So, where do you go from here? 

 

Unfortunately, this is the scenario faced by many families today … and more recently … a very dear friend of mine.  I was unaware of her troubles until a few days ago.  We spoke briefly about another matter, however, I sensed that something was wrong.  After pressing her for a bit, she explained that her frustrations resulted from her recent car troubles.  I accepted her explanation and left it at that. 

 

Later, I learned that my friend's troubles extend far beyond her recent car dilemma.  You see, she was the sole bread winner in her family until she lost her job.  I am not sure how long she has been out of work.  Thinking back to our conversation, I am guessing it has been long enough to affect her mental and financial stability.  After giving it some thought, I decided not to approach her with the matter.  Instead, I mailed her an envelope accompanied by a small note.  Surely, I know her well enough to know that she would never burden me with her financial troubles nor would she ever ask me for anything monetarily.  But in these difficult times, we have to do what we can to help others along ... so I did what I could.  After all, I have come to realize that what you do for others is nothing compared to what you get back in return!

 

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Lisa Dunham, MBA
Associate Broker
Keller Williams Realty Alexandria-Kingstowne
703.562.1800 (office)  |  703.298-6546 (direct)
Licensed in VA, MD
www.LisaDunham.com
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Leslie G. Rojohn
MoonDancer Realty - Sylva, NC
GRI, ABR ~ MoonDancer Realty

As our safety nets are falling into disrepair and/or being intentionally destoyed, it is good for all of us to do what we can. Unfortunately, what we can, more often than not, is not nearly enough. Not only must we pay it forward directly but we must get involved politcally to make sure that our fellow human beings, usually through no fault of their own, aren't desimated by greed and thirst for power.

Sep 25, 2011 06:19 AM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

Leslie, well-said!  I could not agree with you more.  We absolutely MUST get more involved for the welfare of us all!

Sep 25, 2011 06:42 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

Lisa, It is so true .... what we do for others is small compared to what we get in return.  It feels so good to help others and the rewards return many-fold in ways we cannot measure. 

 

Sep 25, 2011 07:29 AM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

Absolutely Kathleen!  The feeling is definitely immeasurable!

Sep 25, 2011 07:38 AM
Jerry Newman
Brown Realty, 210-789-4216, - San Antonio, TX
Texas REALTOR, San Antonio Military Relocation

Lisa, You did the right thing for your friend. You Giving Spirit will be reward in the long run, and if not. You gave what you could at the time of her need. Sometimes a very small gesture will go a long way in helping others.

Sep 25, 2011 09:35 AM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

Thanks Jerry! Given her situation, I am sure she needs far more than I can afford to give.  Nonetheless, every little bit helps.

Sep 25, 2011 09:46 AM
Wayne Johnson
Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper REALTORS® - San Antonio, TX
San Antonio REALTOR, San Antonio Homes For Sale

Lisa-That was not only a nice gesture, but a tangilble one too. Being without income is a tough place to be in the USA. You are quite a friend. Lots of people pay lip service, but few are willing to really help.

Sep 25, 2011 03:09 PM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

Thanks Wayne!  I know I cannot possibly solve all of her financial problems, but I hope that in some small way I was able to help.

Sep 25, 2011 03:46 PM
Dave Roberts
Healdsburg Sotheby's International Realty - Healdsburg, CA

A random act of kindness is a wonderful thing. A society that worked hard to create jobs so people like your friend could keep her dignity and breadwinning role intact would be even more wonderful. There's going to be some interesting green energy job potential being talked about in the next few weeks and I hope you, Wayne, Jerry, Kathleen, and Leslie can all get involved.

Sep 25, 2011 07:42 PM
Don Sabinske
Don Sabinske, Sabinske & Associates Inc. - Zimmerman, MN
Sabinske & Associates Inc.

You are a wonderful friend and what a generous gift to someone who can really use a boost.  Thanks for sharing this great story.

Sep 26, 2011 05:02 AM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

I agree Dave, it would truly be a wonderful blessing.  FYI, I was unaware of the job potential you referenced, but I most definitely will try to find some information on it. Thanks for the heads-up!

Sep 26, 2011 12:30 PM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

Thanks Don! I just hope things turn around for her real soon.

Sep 26, 2011 12:31 PM
Debbie Walsh
SHAHAR Management - Middletown, NY
Hudson Valley NY Real Estate 845.283-3036

What a generous thing to do and it will mean the world to her. 

Sep 29, 2011 04:16 AM
Lisa Dunham
Alexandria, VA
Associate Broker, Alexandria Virginia Real Estate

You are absolutely right Debra!  I have spoken with her since posting this blog and she was deeply appreciative.  It made my day!

Sep 29, 2011 12:02 PM
Michael Morgan
Remax - Altamonte Springs, FL
Serving Seminole County FL

Great story Lisa. What no one understands that if enough people pay it forward, it will come back to you ten-fold, and in way's you never expected.

Sep 30, 2011 06:17 PM