That moment changed me. It reminded me that everyone has a story, and sometimes all it takes is a little compassion to see the bigger picture. I decided to keep the cameras up, not as a tool for suspicion, but as a reminder to always look deeper, to ask questions before jumping to conclusions.

In the end, the experience brought us closer. George became more than just a customer—he became a friend, someone whose presence I cherished even more. And my store continued to be a place not just for transactions, but for understanding, community, and second chances.