(CNN) Myles Eckert gave a soldier 20 dollars in an Ohio Cracker Barrel.
That act of kindness has now grown into an inspiring movement and that money has multiplied.
The note read:
Dear soldier, my dad was a soldier, he is in heaven now. I found this $20 dollars in the parking lot when we got here we like to pay it forward in my family it’s your lucky day. I thank you for your service.
Signed Myles Eckert a Gold Star kid
Those were the words that started it all.
“It was the right thing to do. It would be selfish if I didn’t. My mom always told me ‘kindness always wins.’ Said Myles.
Myles found a $20 bill on the way into a Cracker Barrel in Maumee, Ohio.
Instead of using it for a game or a toy, he hand delivered it with the note to Lt. Col Frank Dailey of the 180th Fighter Wing.
“I am truly honored to be part in the story, because the story’s actually Myles’ and his act of kindness, I am just happened to have been the recipient.” Said Lt. Col Dailey.
Myles mother Tiffany said, “He was so focused on being the one to write this note, he had to give it to that soldier. It was him, it had to be him that day. I mean everything about it is a fate thing. Everything about it is a God thing. It all happened the way it was supposed to.”
Tiffany Eckert lost her husband and her children lost their father in May 2005 just weeks after Myles was born.
“Get better, not bitter, kindness always wins and paying it forward. Those are the three major truths I’ve tried to instill in my children and this is the big payoff for me.” Said Tiffany.
Lt. Col Dailey donated the original $20 to Cedar Creek Church.
“It doesn’t get old telling stories about paying it forward and caring for each other in our community.” Said Lt. Col Dailey.
And the story inspired others…offers poured in from all over the world to give money to the Eckerts.
The family decided the money should go to the Snowball Express a charity that helps children who’ve lost a parent in the military.
A Texas company will match each donation dollar for dollar up to one million dollars.
“So in effect we’re taking Myles’ 20 dollar bill and we’re paying it forward to 2 million dollars for our friends which is incredible.”Said Tiffany.
For more information about Snowball Express and to donate visit : https://snowballexpress.org