In a small restaurant in Jos, there was a table near the window with four chairs. Three were always occupied. One remained empty. Every single day. Customers noticed it. Staff noticed it. Yet nobody ever sat there. One afternoon, a curious customer asked the restaurant owner why the chair was always left vacant. The owner smiled softly. Then she shared a story. Years ago, when she was struggling to start the restaurant, business was terrible. Some days, she barely sold enough food to cover costs. One evening, a stranger walked in and ordered a meal. After eating, he paid for his food and quietly handed her extra money. "Use this to keep going," he said. She tried to refuse. But he insisted. Then he left. She never saw him again. That small act came at a time when she was considering closing the business. Instead, she stayed open. Years later, the restaurant became successful. But she never forgot that moment. The empty chair was her reminder. A reminder that one act of kindness can change someone's direction. A reminder that help often arrives from unexpected places. A reminder to remain grateful. Many people think impact requires wealth, influence, or power. But sometimes all it takes is showing up at the right moment for someone who needs encouragement. The stranger probably forgot about the money. The restaurant owner never forgot the hope. What's a small act of kindness you've received that stayed with you for years?
