The Quarters Were the Last Thing I Had

I was completely out of cash.

I knew I’d get paid, but I wasn’t sure if anything else was due first. My bank account was empty. My credit card was maxed out. My overdraft protection was at its limit.

I had a state quarter collection—friends and family had helped me finish it. I used the coins from that to cover cigarettes and food until the money came through. I thought I would fill it back in, but I never did. Even with much more money today, it does not seem the same to fill it in as when everyone chipped in to help.

I’m still here.

— From the Story Keeper

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