What can 5 dollars buy you nowadays? It's not much, it's the second smallest bill in circulation. Depending on your mood, it can get you a little....or a lot. A warm latte, a value meal at a fast food chain, a few items at the Dollar Store, or a unique find at a garage sale. For most of us, 5 dollars will come and go so quickly from our pockets, we will rarely notice where it went and how it was spent. But to a child, or an adult in need, just one $5 bill means o much more. As is the case in this story.
Five-year old Kelly Grace had overheard her older brother, 17 year old Jordan on the phone. Now before we continue, I must tell you a little about Kelly Grace. She was diagnosed with Apraxia of speech at 2 years old. Apraxia is a neurological disorder that affects her ability to speak. Her brain is not able to send the correct signals to her tongue and the muscles in her mouth, to articulate certain sounds needed to produce words. It is in the Autism spectrum, which a little more commonly heard of. But as you will read, she does not let this affect her thinking, and more importantly, her heart and love for others.
Jordan wanted badly to be able to visit friends in the neighboring town, which is about a 20 minute drive. But with no car himself, no job, and no money, his options were limited. He finally had found someone who would drive him, but they needed something in return...GAS MONEY!!! Kelly grace listened to his conversation intently, "well I don't have any money, but let me see if I can borrow some...5 dollars will be enough? ...Great! I'll see if I can come up with 5 dollars. Thank you!!"
That's when Kelly Graces plan went into action! She was going to get her brother that 5 dollars! She gathered up her crayons, paper, and her kid scissors. She snuck away to her room, crafting and cutting the perfect $5 dollar bill. She thought for sure Jordan could use it, and he would be so happy to be able to see his friends!
She finally emerged from her room, holding her 5 dollar bill high above her head. She presented it to Jordan, with a beaming smile that went from ear to ear. "Here Jordan, this is for you. I heard you say you needed 5 dollars for gas money, so I made this money for you."
You have never seen a 6 foot plus tall 17 year old drop to his knees so quickly as he did that day. he grabbed her tightly, kissed her forehead, and said " Thank you so much little sister! This means the world to me!"
And even though he couldn't technically use it, he treasured that 5 dollar bill as if were all the gas money, or gold bars in the world! It meant so much more to him than the aspect of having money. It meant that she, his five year old sister, was looking out for him and wanted to make him happy. And more importantly, she really loved him. He in turn, knew he needed to step up his game as big borther, and make sure she felt the same love, happiness, and attention in return, And he has! Everyday!
Something more to think about now the next time you spend 5 dollars. Like I said, to most of us, it goes so quickly, we hardly notice. So maybe, when we have that 5 dollars, we can put it to better use. An extra 5 dollars in the collection plate at church, or to a special missionary fund. 5 dollars worth of food and water to someone in need. Maybe donate 5 dollars instead of just one when your grocery clerk asks if you'd like to donate to a local charity or cause. 5 dollars to your local food bank. the possibilities are endless! That 5 dollars can make more of a difference than you think. It can be more than just a coffee,a hamburger. Just ask Jordan and Kelly Grace!