She always parked her car in the same place.

The parking valet, smiling politely, always greeted her.

Sometimes they would exchange a few words: she asking about his family, he answering. Telling her about one or two health issues.

Other times they talked about usual things, about the weather, about the dangers of a big city...

He lived on the faraway neighborhood at the suburbs. Certainly a very modest house - almost a shack.

That day she worried about him. It was very cold.

She remembered her life was not easy. She had been through a lot lately, but wondered about his, surely much more complicated.

She could not always give him some money. She thought she could only give him some coins once or twice a week.

She knew he needed it. That was his dignified job. He put food on his family table with this money.

She wished she could afford more. He deserved it, for always saving her a privileged space, without any request of hers, without any deserve, she used to think.

With a sorrow heart, she decided today she would say something:

I know I do not always give you something. I wish I could give more, give always, but... you know... I really cannot.

I know you are working, and you are a nice and polite person, and even though I give you so little, you always save me a spot.

I know some people always park here, and they give you one or two dollars tips, but I really cannot afford it - she said a bit ashamed.

He then answered, simply and truthfully:

Lady, I do not keep your parking space for money at all. I do need the money, but that's not it.

You are the only person who talks to me, pays attention and treats me like a brother.

She silenced by hearing those words. She smiled, shy, and said, while she was leaving: That's alright, then.

She went to work thinking about what she just heard. She had never thought about that.

I wonder if no one else talks to him. It is just a quick chat, about simple matters, nothing really important.

Oh dear, do people just ignore him? Even meeting him everyday like I do?

Those thoughts penetrated her mind, lingering all day.

She realized she could give something much more important than coins, the usual change.

                                                                       *   *   *

Charity does not mean only material donations.

Philanthropy is actually just a small part of the real world of charity.

We live in a world and in a country where people still need urgent material help, but we must understand that it is not enough.

People need other kinds of help. People need attention, friendship, someone who cares.

Food for the soul strengths the heart, and stronger people have more possibilities to provide material sustenance.

Think about it.

Spiritist Moment Team.
April 05.2010.