Keywords: Langston Hughes, Woman, act of kindness Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The storyteller Aesop once quipped, “Any act of kindness, no matter how small, is never in vain.” This truth is highlighted in Langston Hughes' short story, "Thank You Ma'am," when a woman helps a boy from the wrong side of the tracks get back on the right path, even though he has wronged her . The woman's merciful but firm stance enlightens the mischievous boy to the error of his ways. In the end, a little generosity and kindness will go a long way. As the story begins to take shape, Roger is a lost young man, still untouched by the woman's kindness. He fails in his attempt to steal a purse from Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones and already pays the price. The author says: “The tall woman simply turned around and kicked him in her blue jean model. Then she bent down, picked the boy up by the front of his shirt, and shook him until his teeth chattered. Clearly, Mrs. Jones takes matters into her own hands to discipline the rebellious boy, rather than relying on the police. She punishes him for his wrongdoings with the sole purpose of discouraging him from making similar mistakes in the future. In this way, it is her concern for his well-being and future that pushes her to take such harsh measures. Another example of Mrs. Jones' compassionate, almost motherly attitude toward Roger is demonstrated when she verbally confronts him. She remarks, “You should be my son.” I will teach you right from wrong. The least I can do right now is wash your face. Are you hungry?" While most people would be unhappy with their attackers, Mrs. Jones wanted to care for Roger and even take him under her wing. It is telling that her priority was caring for the boy and not reporting him to the authorities In conclusion, Mrs. Jones showed immense generosity towards Roger, and that made all the difference. Later, Mrs. Jones continues her maternal role towards Roger, even softening a little. didn't ask the boy anything about where he lived, or his parents, or anything else that might embarrass him. Instead, while they ate, she talked to him about. "It is noted that Mrs. Jones was considerate of the boy by speaking to him in a friendly manner, discussing a carefree subject with him to ease his mind and establish a caring relationship with him, as if he were her son. In another example of her hospitality toward Roger, she said, "Now take these ten dollars and buy yourself some blue suede shoes... The boy wanted to say something other than 'Thank you, ma'am'... but even though his lips moved , he couldn’t.” Surprisingly, Ms Jones gave the boy the money he had tried to steal from her in the first place – as well as a valuable lesson. As for Roger, he was visibly moved by her charity and amazed to see that anyone could be so forgiving; he had obviously learned his lesson. Overall, Mrs. Jones showed Roger great mercy and was rewarded with the satisfaction of knowing that she had made a positive impact on his life. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay As Aesop brilliantly pointed out: “Any act of kindness, no matter how small, is never in vain. » Langston Hughes highlights this reality in his short story “Thank you Ma'am”. Roger is surprised to receive compassion and mercy..