An Act of Integrity: The Story of Howard Kirby’s Extraordinary Discovery
An Unexpected Discovery
Howard Kirby, a senior citizen from Owosso, Michigan, made an unexpected find that would forever change his life.
Having purchased a second-hand couch and matching ottoman for a mere $70 from the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, he found the ottoman unusually uncomfortable. In a bid to rectify the issue, Kirby and his daughter decided to open up one of its cushions.
Hidden inside was a box crammed with a staggering $43,170. Despite legally owning the money, as he had purchased the ottoman, Kirby, guided by his Christian values, chose a different path.
A Noble Decision
Rather than pocketing the surprise fortune, Kirby felt it was his duty to return the money to its rightful owner. Upon reaching out to the store, he was able to connect with Kim Newberry, the original owner of the couch and the ottoman.
Kirby’s integrity did not stop there. When offered the chance to have his roof repaired as a reward for his noble act, he humbly declined. Unbeknownst to Newberry, the Habitat for Humanity and a local builder had already arranged to provide Kirby with a new roof as a gesture of gratitude for his selfless deed.
An Outpouring of Support
News of Kirby’s remarkable act of honesty quickly spread, inspiring those close to him to initiate a GoFundMe campaign on his behalf. The campaign successfully raised $15,000, a testament to the impact of Kirby’s actions on his community.
Reflecting on his experience, Kirby shared his feelings of fulfillment and contentment. He was “blessed beyond words” and felt “so much peace, so much joy” from doing the right thing. In his words, “$43,000 never could buy that much joy or peace or happiness.”
Faith Restored in Humanity
Howard Kirby’s actions serve as a shining example of honesty and integrity, demonstrating that doing the right thing is a reward in itself. His story has indeed restored faith in humanity, reminding us that honesty and generosity can have a profound impact on others and ourselves.
In an era of skepticism and mistrust, Kirby’s story brings a refreshing wave of positivity and hope, proving that good deeds do not go unnoticed. His actions and their ripple effects reaffirm the enduring value of honesty and integrity.