When Howard Kirby set out to furnish his man cave with a secondhand couch from Habitat for Humanity ReStore, little did he know that his purchase would uncover a life-changing discovery. Tucked away inside the couch’s ottoman was a surprising find—a stash of $43,750 in cash. Despite grappling with financial difficulties stemming from a recent divorce, medical bills, and other personal challenges, Kirby faced a moral dilemma.
After a moment of reflection, Kirby decided to follow his conscience and return the money. He traced the origins of the couch to Kim F. Newberry, whose late grandfather had unwittingly donated the furniture, oblivious to the hidden fortune inside.
Kirby’s act of integrity didn’t go unnoticed; deeply moved by his honesty, a local company volunteered to repair Kirby’s roof, and a community-driven fundraiser generated $16,000 to alleviate his financial burdens.
Kirby’s faith played a pivotal role in his decision-making process. As a devout Christian, he attributed his actions to divine guidance, stating, ‘Christ in me is the one that actually gave the money back.’ His story resonates as a poignant example of compassion and honesty in today’s society. Despite facing his own adversities, Kirby’s selfless deed continues to inspire others, underscoring the profound impact of kindness and integrity.
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