One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity Book

1 Fleas, Footsteps, and Checkout Lanes 13

The Springboard of Gratitude

2 Loaves, Fishes, and Miracle Math 37

The Mystery of Sharing 37

3 Keys, Candy, and Army Men 49

The Act of Encouragement

4 Spilled Latte, Backpacks, and Tollbooths 69

The Habit of Good Deeds

5 A Memory, a Guard, and an Outstretched Hand 85

The Impact of Forgiveness 85

6 A Coach, a Cough Drop, and a Light Bulb 101

The Power of Believing the Best

7 Point Hope, a Piano Recital, and a House Yet to Come 117

The Bounty of Open-Handed Giving

8 Static, Stories, and Chow-Chow 137

The Art of Listening 137

9 Jambalaya, Cupcakes, and the North Platte Canteen 155

The Practice of Hospitality

10 Waiting Rooms, Blossoms, and Letters That Last 171

The Privilege of Inspiring Hope

11 Glue, Legends, and a Slumber Party 191

The Spirit of Christmas 191

12 Bread Crumbs, Minnows, and Submarines 211

The Gift of Caregiving

13 A Kingdom, Ten Dollars, and Afghans of Love 227

The Bounty of Time

14 Red Stars, Research, and a Rolex 247

The Offering of Prayer

15 A Question, an Opportunity, and a Conversation Worth Having 261

The Sharing of Our Faith Stories

16 A Treasure, a Shawl, and a Hymn over the Phone 277

The Heart of Service

17 Giving God the Last Word 293

Acknowledgments 301

Appendix A One Simple Act Reader Questions 305

Appendix B Some of Debbie Macomber's Favorite Charities 309

Notes 311