In a remarkable display of honesty and integrity, 13-year-old Yang Xuan from Jiangsu province, eastern China, found himself at the crossroads of a moral decision that would not only test his character but also touch the hearts of many. On December 3, Yang, accompanied by his mother Zhu Xiaorong, stumbled upon a significant sum of money, amounting to 158,000 yuan (US$22,000), casually left on the street in a white bag.
The discovery came at a time when Yang’s family faced dire financial circumstances. His father had been hospitalized following a cerebral haemorrhage, straining the family’s resources and plunging them into uncertainty. Yet, the sight of the bag laden with cash did not sway Yang. Instead of yielding to the pressing needs of his family, he chose to chase after the owner, who was quickly disappearing on a bicycle, in an attempt to return the money.
Realizing that catching up with the owner was futile, Yang, with a sense of urgency and responsibility, turned to the police for assistance. His actions, guided by empathy and a deep understanding of distress – perhaps mirrored in his own family’s situation – led him to remark, “The owner must be distraught, and he probably needs the money to save a life, like my father.”
Yang’s commendable act did not go unnoticed. His school organized a ceremony to honor his noble deed, where a police officer saluted him, acknowledging his exemplary behavior. This young boy’s selflessness resonated deeply with the community, especially given his family’s own precarious financial state. His decision to prioritize another’s distress over his own family’s needs speaks volumes of his upbringing and personal values.
Online communities in China were quick to express their admiration for Yang. One commenter called him “a very good boy,” while another praised his parents for raising him so well. Yet another emphasized the value of a kind heart over money.
This story of Yang Xuan, the young Samaritan, joins the annals of heartwarming tales from China, where children’s acts of honesty and altruism shine as beacons of hope and humanity. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of personal hardships, the human spirit can choose compassion and integrity, inspiring others to believe in the goodness that exists in the world.
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