When my 12-year-old son Ben accepted our wealthy neighbor’s offer to shovel snow for $10 a day, he was thrilled to earn money for gifts. But his excitement turned to heartbreak when the man refused to pay, calling it a “lesson about contracts.” That’s when I decided to teach a lesson of my own.
Ben had always had a big heart and determination far beyond his years. He spent weeks diligently shoveling, dreaming of buying me a scarf, his sister a dollhouse, and saving for a telescope. His hard work and joy were contagious, and I admired his dedication.
But on December 23rd, Ben came home, tears in his eyes. “Mr. Dickinson said he’s not paying me,” he choked out. “He said I needed a contract.” Anger surged through me. No one cheats a child like that.
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