After posting the pushpin, I walked away and didn't check FB for a few days...

I never thought anyone would care to give my crazy post a second glance! Boy was I surprised when I checked it. There were all sorts of responses. Here are a few:

• Chris: What you are looking for is a used candle. Give the push pin to Meredith to fix her sign and then go see Ryan!
• Naomi: I will give you a package of top ramen
• Fred: Any pics of the other side? Other direction? Using it in action?
• Kimberlee: Lol have you been watching the office too?!
• Kimberley: If you still have the item, I am in need of a push pin of this color and will trade you a new set of reading glasses +1.75 Black, picture available - the next entry is a picture of the glasses!
• Kip: Interested!
• Nancy: I have a sand dollar I picked up on the beaxh
• Kim: I have some hardly used coco butter with mango Chapstick I'm willing to trade! :)
• Jessica: I have a used nail out of a horseshoe

On and on they went. One guy wants to trade me his ex-wife. Another posted a picture of his cat which brought in 3 other people with similar cats...Then, there was the guy with an empty beer can...

It's really fun to look back on. I've never had a post with so much commentary!

Since it was a few days later, and nothing had come up, I was getting discouraged.

This is the first message I read after posting. I think I got this one because Pat opened a group and messaged instead of commenting on the post. I was so surprised to get a response! And a real offer at that...one that I felt I could pass along. I almost cried.

Pat: Any preferences as to what spieces of decoy you want? I have mallard, pintail, gadwall, widgeon, read head, and Canada goose!

I almost cried again! What kind of guy would not only trade for a pushpin, but also provide options? 

We messaged back and forth, set up a time to meet at the train station after work, and that was it...

I sat in the parking lot. 5:15 came and went. No Pat in his jacked up Ford truck. What in the world? I almost cried again!

I messaged: "Pulled in a few minutes ago. You're not here looking for me are you?

Pat: No, I totally forgot! I'm so sorry. I hurt my leg and had to get home and get ice on it. You can come out to my house today or I can meet you tomorrow.

Phew! I mean...that's too bad...

I went straight to his house. 

We had a good chat. What a neat guy! His leg was going to be okay, but it was pretty bruised and battered.

Before leaving, I told Pat, "You don't know how much this means to me! This is such a confidence builder! I was about to give this whole thing up before I even made a trade." 

I seriously feel blessed. There are so many great people out there! I am so glad I met Pat. He is one generous guy, and I'm not the only one who thinks that way.

I am a better person. I have given generously because of his example.

Thanks, Pat!

Call to action: Go do something GENEROUS. 

Your life will be enriched.