Passing the Pencil … Miracles in the Margin

Bailee Chavez
Jun 4
2 min read

Updated: Jun 4

I think it’s important to leave enough margin in your life that you have time to consider others.

One day in college, I found myself with a few extra moments before class. I love when this happens. With more time on my hands before rushing to my 8 AM psychology class, I had the time to ask myself if I was forgetting anything.

It was an exam day, and so it was one of the few days I would need a pencil. (Usually I just took notes on my laptop.)

Thinking that it would be wise to take a few extra in case one broke, I stuck a few more in my bag.

I got to class, and what do you know—the girl next to me needed a pencil.

I gave one to her and was happy to be able to help her.

Not going to lie, I did wonder what the pencil etiquette would be like.

I’m usually always one of the last ones to turn in an exam. (Homegirll sn’t afraid to use up all the allotted time.)

So, I was sure she’d probably leave before I did.

In true psychology minor fashion, I wondered if she would return the pencil.

Time passed, and she did leave with my beloved pencil.

Because God says to give generously, I decided to let this misdemeanor slide. (This is sarcasm y’all.)

I’m sure it was an honest mistake and not a cruel attempt to put me in a writing utensil shortage.

In college, you rarely have the same class every day. So, when I went back to class on Wednesday, I had forgotten about Monday's offense.

But before I left, the girl came back and apologized for not giving the pencil back the day before!

I couldn’t believe she actually remembered.

God taught me 2 lessons that day.

Give generously and without expecting anything in return. In due time, you will be compensated—whether that be in this life or the next.
Give yourself enough time before you have to be somewhere to ask yourself if you are forgetting something, read a Psalm, say a prayer, or take a quick breather before getting to where you need to go. You will bless yourself AND others. Even 5 minutes of margin can make a difference.