I hear this phrase often, on and around Chapel Street. It is both sobering and thought provoking.
Those who use it need some loose change from you to make a small difference in their daily life and circumstances. It can get them some food or a wash; perhaps something to wear from the thrift shop; or some medicines.
I look at it as the universe’s sign for me to change, to keep evolving. In the world, nothing stays the same. Everything changes, including you.
Sometimes, we can get stuck. This request from a stranger on the street shakes me out of my comfort zone and fills me with gratitude for all I have.
It also shows me my place in this enormous machine—the system we live in and sometimes struggle with. So much needs to change, and I can’t do it all. I can, however, make my little corner of the world a safer, happier place and leave others a little better off.
Whether it is with a smile—or some loose change.