Letter: Character is shown when no one is watching

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To the editor,

Dec. 15, 2016 was a very sad day for me. It was the one year anniversary of my sister’s death. I knew I didn’t feel quite right, but rather than staying home I decided to venture out and do some errands.

I had to go to Liberty Bank and also pay my house tax. The pouch that I had been given from a bank employee held much of my financial information in addition to over $100 in cash. When I returned home I had the pouch but some of my account information plus the cash was missing.

I retraced my steps and went back to Town Hall first. This was to no avail.

Normally, I would have become upset at myself. But on this day I just said, “It’s in God’s hands,” and if I don’t find my information and money, I refuse to get upset. I was all prepared to accept my loss.

As soon as I arrived at Liberty Bank the supervisor knew why I was there and instructed me to go to the New Haven Road branch. There I was presented with my lost belongings, including all the cash. I was told a Good Samaritan found my envelope in the street by Town Hall. He brought it to the bank immediately. In less than two hours my property was back in my possession.

I was able to get in touch with this Good Samaritan because he called my house and had left a message for me. When I spoke to him he was very reluctant to accept any reward. We finally settled on an amount when I told him to put it to use for his children.

I know that many people are very kind and generous, especially during the holiday season. However, good character is displayed when you do the right thing when no one is watching.

Also, many religions believe strongly that “God works through people.” More than receiving my money and financial information back, I experienced firsthand — on a very sad day for me — Steve Farthing’s genuine kindness, caring, honesty and good character. Thank you again, Steve.

Linda R. Rice

Naugatuck