The polar vortex of 2019 brought a record-breaking deep freeze to the midwest, and the city of Chicago was no exception.
When dire circumstances strike, it’s human nature for us to think primarily of ourselves and our family’s needs — but Sabeel Ahmed’s family went far beyond that by deciding to proactively help those in their community.
It all started when the father of three began worrying about their ailing 95-year-old neighbor, and that concern soon grew wider to other people nearby who may be elderly, sick, or simply incapable of coping with sub-zero weather.
“Then we realized ‘What would Jesus do?,’ ” said Ahmed.
He and his wife spent a good portion of the day drafting and hand-delivering letters to 40 neighbors offering a variety of services.
It read:
“Hi, Dear Neighbours [sic]
Greetings of Peace. As temperatures dip way below zero, neighbours [sic] are the ones to help each other.
My family and I are available if you need assistance in picking up groceries, medicine or removal of snow.
You are also welcome to drop into our home for hot tea and samosa. :)”
“We hope and pray each person seeing this letter that they would write something similar and not just for winter,” said Ahmed. “This should be a lifelong activity for all neighbors every city, every state.”
Though Ahmed and his family extended a helping hand with no agenda to gain publicity, their Chicago suburb couldn’t help but take note.
Watch below as they are honored their generous acts of kindness.