— John D. Rockefeller
Let’s face it most of us are creatures of habit. There is security in knowing what to expect-even if what one has isn’t exactly what one wants. A steady job, routine predictability, or a relationship that “works” can be comforting. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with appreciating good things in your life.
But therein lies the problem: comfort can be a trap. You start settling because it’s easier to do than to take a risk in possible pursuit of something much more fulfilling, and you might say, “Why shake things up when everything’s okay?”
Probably the most popular opposition that such an idea meets is the fear of losing what one already has. The question might be hovering in your mind: What if I take the leap and it doesn’t work out? What if I leave the good and the great never comes? These are valid concerns, and it’s natural to be cautious.
In 1920s, John D. Rockefeller, one of the wealthiest men of his time and a philanthropist known for his contributions to various causes, was photographed gifting a 5-cent coin to a young child. This moment captured a rare instance of the oil magnate interacting with the public in a simple, personal way. While Rockefeller’s wealth and influence were immense, this image highlights a more down-to-earth side of him, showing that even the wealthiest figures of the time could participate in acts of kindness and generosity on a smaller scale.
The gift of a 5-cent coin, though modest by Rockefeller’s standards, would have been a meaningful gesture for a child in the 1920s. In an era marked by economic shifts and the aftermath of World War I, a nickel could still hold value, and the gesture likely carried more significance than its monetary worth. It was a symbol of goodwill and a reminder that acts of kindness, no matter how small, have the potential to leave a lasting impact.
This photograph serves as a window into the intersection of wealth and social responsibility during the early 20th century. While Rockefeller’s financial empire was built on oil and business, he was also deeply involved in philanthropy, donating large sums to causes such as education, health, and scientific research. The image of him sharing a coin with a child contrasts the immense scale of his wealth with the more personal, human side of giving, emphasizing that acts of generosity can transcend material worth.