Gratitude and Generosity

 

Two students were studying in Stanford University in early 19^th century. They did not have enough money to pay for their fees. A wise idea stuck these youth. They thought of arranging a music program with Polish piano artist, Paderewski and raise money to pay for their fees. When they contacted his manager, he fixed the price at 2000 $ for the program.

After the program was over when they counted the collection money, it was only 1600 $. They gave all those 1600 $ to Paderewski along with a note stating that they would pay the balance in another few months. Paderewski gave back the money to the youth and asked them to pay their fees and they need not pay him anything.

Years passed by, both the youth climbed up in their ladder of life. So also Paderewski reached the heights of his fame. Suddenly severe famine stuck Poland. Paderewski was one of the main person in Poland who organized food grains and money from many parts of the world.  Unable to manage the situation his team contacted the American President and the President supplied huge quantities of food grains and other commodities more than enough for them to manage the situation.

When Paderewski heard that the American President, Herbert Hoover had come to Paris, he went to thank the President for the timely help. The President introduced himself as one among those two students whom he was kind enough many years ago to pay their fees. There was a true union of emotion, love and gratitude.

The above story exemplifies the interconnectedness of people's lives and the power of kindness and gratitude. The two students who organized the music program with Paderewski were initially helped by him when they couldn't pay their fees. Years later, Paderewski found himself in a position where he needed help to alleviate the famine in Poland, and it was the American President, Herbert Hoover, who came to his aid.

The reunion between Paderewski and President Hoover demonstrates the profound impact that acts of kindness can have on individuals and how they can create lasting bonds. Despite the passage of time and the difference in their positions, the gratitude and appreciation between them were genuine and heartfelt.