Dear Editor,

I am pleased to share an uplifting story for a change.

In a time when our society is overwhelmed with crime and corruption, we rarely encounter occasions that remind us that there are still good morals and decency.

On Friday, April 26, 2013 — pay day for many — I was to attend a concert at the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) featuring the great musical genius, Maurice Gordon, performing with his band: Maurice Gordon and Friends.

En route, family members and I decided to stop for lunch on-the-go at Heroes Circle — roasted corn, yam and salt fish. We pulled into the BOJ parking lot with enough time to spare. A full house enjoyed the magnificent performance. Unbeknownst to me, this was beginning of a great evening.

Returning to the parking lot, the security guard greeted me by my full name. Puzzled, I greeted him back and asked under what circumstances we had met. His response was not what I expected — he informed me that he had found my wallet in the parking lot. The natural panic occurred as I desperately searched my pockets hoping that he was mistaken. Alas, empty pockets.

He immediately returned my wallet to me and said that the gardener notified him that I had dropped it on exiting the vehicle.

Both did the honourable thing; the security guard holding on to the wallet until I returned. This was a breath of fresh air.

There are still a few of us genuine and honest Jamaicans living here.

Not only did I express my immeasurable gratitude to both men, I contacted the security guard’s employer so that they too would be aware of the goodness that still exists in this country.

This gesture may not have moved mountains, but if we were all so lucky to encounter such kindness on a regular basis, I would challenge you not to smile. I hope goodness is contagious and this story encourages people of Jamaica to remember compassion and respect for each other.

Thank you, Mr Sonil Palmer of McKay Security.

Michael Chuck

michaelchuckmtr@gmail.com