Martin Farmer, a seventeen-year-old with more burdens than most people his age, went to the flea market on a crisp Sunday morning. Life hadn’t been easy for him. Since his dad passed away two years earlier, he became the man of the house, taking care of his sick mother while juggling school, a part-time job, and a limp from a motorcycle accident that dashed his dreams of playing football.
With his athletic scholarship hopes gone, his life felt like a series of struggles with no end in sight.
Money was tight, but once a month, Martin allowed himself a simple pleasure. With $5 saved from his wages, he’d wander the flea market, hoping to find some old music tapes. It was his one little break from the constant challenges he faced.
This Sunday, while sorting through tapes at his usual vendor’s stall, something caught his attention. Nearby, an elderly man was setting up his own little stand with a pile of dusty suitcases and bags. The man’s raspy voice cut through the crowd, his words laced with an optimistic charm: “Suitcases, bags, and briefcases! Only five dollars apiece! A bargain for anyone with an eye for treasure!”
People walked by, unimpressed. One woman snorted, calling the suitcases “junk,” while another man laughed and told the elderly man he’d never sell a single bag. But the old man didn’t seem discouraged. He shook his head and replied, “Someone will come along because this suitcase right here—it’s full of hope. It might look like an ordinary bag, but it’s got dreams inside.”
Martin chuckled to himself, intrigued. “I could use a little hope myself,” he called out, smiling. “How much for that dream come true?”
The old man’s face lit up, his eyes twinkling with warmth. “For you, son, it’s just $5.”
Martin hesitated, knowing that $5 was all he had for the month, but something in the old man’s eyes told him it was worth it. He handed over the bill, and the old man gripped his hand with surprising strength. “You’re a kind young man,” he said softly. “You deserve every bit of what’s coming your way.”
The suitcase was unexpectedly heavy as Martin left the stall. He gave a last look at the music tapes and promised himself he’d come back next month. When he reached home, his mother noticed the suitcase and frowned. “Martin, why’d you waste money on more junk?” she scolded.
But Martin couldn’t resist the suitcase’s pull. Alone in the garage, he took a deep breath and opened it. Inside, under layers of yellowed newspaper, lay stacks and stacks of $20 bills. His hands shook as he peeled away each layer, the weight of the discovery sinking in. It was $300,000.
When he called his mother over, she stood frozen, disbelief and excitement flashing in her eyes. They counted the money together, again and again, unable to believe it was real. “This could cover my medication, help with bills, and get you into college,” she whispered, awe filling her voice.
Martin’s heart pounded, but a nagging feeling stopped him from celebrating. “Mom, I didn’t earn this money. The old man sold me this suitcase for only $5. I don’t think he knew what was inside.”
After a moment, his mother nodded. “We have to find him. It’s the right thing to do.”
For weeks, Martin searched the flea market, hoping to spot the old man again. Then, one crowded afternoon, he spotted him waiting at a bus stop with another suitcase. Martin ran over, breathless. “Sir! The suitcase—it was full of money. I have to return it to you!”
The old man’s face softened, and he chuckled warmly. “I know, son. I told you it was full of hope and dreams come true. That money was meant for you. Use it well.”
Martin blinked, hardly able to believe it. “But… I thought you needed the money.”
The man smiled, a mysterious glint in his eye. “I’ve lived a long life and gathered more wealth than I need. Now, I share it with those who show kindness and compassion.”
As the old man walked away, disappearing into the bustling crowd, Martin felt a wave of gratitude wash over him. He returned home and told his mother everything, and they made a choice that would change their lives. They used the money to pay for her treatment, secure his education, and give themselves a fresh start.
Every night, they included the “Suitcase Man” in their prayers, thankful for the kindness that had changed their lives forever.
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