TOUGH TIMES

There is the wonderful story about a man named Fiorello LaGuardia. LaGuardia is the name of the one airport in New York. LaGuardia was the mayor of Manhattan during the worst days of the depression. He was called “little flower” because he was only five foot four and always wore a carnation in his belt. One bitterly cold night in January of 1935, the mayor turned up at a night court that served the poorest ward of the city. LaGuardia dismissed the judge for the evening and took over the bench himself.

Within a few minutes, a tattered old woman was brought before him, charged with stealing a loaf of bread. She told LaGuardia that her daughter's husband had deserted her, her daughter was sick, and her two grandchildren were starving. But the shopkeeper, from whom the bread was stolen, refused to drop the charges. The man told the mayor. "She's got to be punished to teach other people around here a lesson." LaGuardia sighed. He turned to the woman and said "I've got to punish you. The law makes no exceptions--ten dollars or ten days in jail."

But even as he pronounced sentence, the mayor was already reaching into his pocket. He extracted a bill and gave it to her. "Here is the ten dollar fine which I now remit; and furthermore I am going to fine everyone in this courtroom fifty cents for living in a town where a person has to steal bread so that her grandchildren can eat. Mr. Bailiff, collect the fines and give them to the defendant." So the following day the New York City newspapers reported that $47.50 was turned over to a bewildered old lady and the story of a courtroom that gave the mayor a standing ovation.

In tough times open your hearts and your hands to those in need.

10 comments:

Ruth's Photo Blog said...

A very heart warming story.We could all do more to help a neighbor.
Blessings,Ruth

Betty said...

What a terrific story! Makes you think and I like those kind of storys.

Kimberly Pitman said...

I love to read of those who take the scripture seriously. Solomon told us to cast our bread upon the water and Jesus told us that the little things we do in secret will be rewarded openly by God. Thanks for sharing this story today. It was an encouragement!

C. JoyBell C. said...

This story has honestly given me goosebumps all over my arms and legs...thank you SO much for sharing this...this gives fresh meaning to life and you are blessed to have shared it with us all.

-C

Lady Dorothy said...

Wonderful story!

George said...

What a fascinating story. I've heard many stories about LaGuardia, but this is a new one. Thanks for sharing it with us.

Patti said...

Karin,
I am so thankful the LORD led me to you via Patrick's blog. I plan to come back and visit often. GIGATTAATTGIG!

Karin said...

Patti, welcome and may the Lord bless you!

LegalMist said...

What a beautiful story. :)

Julie said...

Ohh ! I love that story! There is something about the embracing of justice and mercy that thrills our souls isn't there?
Maybe because that defines our God's heart!