The flames of the next-door fire was about to engulf the kitchen window. Mr. T knew the last could be near, very near. He screamed for his son who was busy collecting all the important documents. The wife with daughter had reluctantly climbed downstairs carrying the valuables. He knew to wait further was utter foolishness yet like most middle-class, home was his most prized asset. Something he had built gradually and was now on the verge of losing it forever.
At that very moment, Mr. T found a hand patting his back. “Sir, we’ve to fight it out. Just can’t watch the fire overpower all,” shouted the complete stranger. His confidence was infectious and gave Mr. T the exuberance of adolescence. Together they put a strong resistance. Soon the professionals joined them to save the two room apartment. It was early morning when the fire was fully extinguished. All this while the stranger never once left his side.
Finally the wife moved up with the children. Mr. T searched for his wallet and emptied it to offer to the stranger. “You keep it back, Sir! I don’t need it,” the stranger responded. “Then what to do you need?” asked confused Mr. T.
Pat came the reply, “Just a cup of tea without milk and sugar.” He continued, “I am jobless. Entire day was trotting around looking for a job. Saw the flames and rushed in. Even you would have done the same, wouldn’t you?”
Mr. T went blank and speechless. The stranger had tea and disappeared from their lives as suddenly as he had entered. No pleasantries spoken. No numbers exchanged.
That very day Mr. T prayed for the first time in his 47 year old life.
(P.S. This is inspired from a true story.)
