A sign above a shop read- “Puppies for Sale.”

Signs like these have a way of grabbing the attention of the children. A small boy, upon seeing the sign, entered into the shop asking; “How much are you selling the puppies for?”

The store owner said- “Anywhere from $30 to $50.”

The little boy removed all the money he had from his pocket-“I have $2.37,” he said. “Can I please look at them?”

The shop owner smiled and whistled. From the kennel, five cute puppies ran out. One puppy was lagging considerably behind. Pointing at the dog the little boy asked- “what is wrong with that one?”

The shopkeeper explained- “the hip socket of the puppy is missing. At least that is what the veterinarian said. It will never walk properly again.”

The little boy cheered with excitement- “That is the puppy that I want to buy.”

“You don’t have to buy that dog. You can have it for free.”

The little boy was upset. He looked up at the shop owner and said;

“I don’t want you to give him to me. That dog is of equal worth as the rest of the dogs. I’ll give you $2.37 now, and 50 cents a month until I have him fully paid for.”

The shopkeeper replied- “Are you sure you want this dog. It is never going to walk, run or play with you.”

The little boy lifted one side of his pants up exposing his crippled legs supported on a big metal brace. He looked up at the shop owner and softly replied, “Well, I don’t run so well myself, and the little puppy will need someone who understands!”

Source: Alltime short stories.