Overview of Jolena Rothweil's Story
This episode of Hidden Brain’s My Unsung Hero features Jolena Rothweil recounting a small act of generosity that had an outsized impact on her life. During a difficult 2007 divorce and a week with an empty bank account, a coworker named Steve Green lent her $20 and left a note that read, “you can pay it back but you can pay it forward.” That single gesture helped her through immediate hardship and inspired her to pass the same kindness forward to friends years later. Jolena credits that moment as a crucial stepping stone toward the stable life she has now.
Key points and main takeaways
- Situation: In 2007 Jolena was undergoing an expensive divorce and ran out of money to cover food, gas, and legal fees.
- Immediate help: A coworker (Steve Green) lent her $20 and left a simple, handwritten note: “you can pay it back but you can pay it forward.”
- Emotional impact: The loan was both practical and deeply meaningful; the note’s message provided hope and an emotional lift during a low point.
- Paying it forward: Years later, Jolena photocopied the note and slipped it to friends struggling to pay heating bills and afford holiday gifts, asking them to open it after she left so she could avoid an emotional reaction.
- Long-term effect: Jolena views that act of kindness as pivotal in her ability to get through the divorce and eventually build a happier life (now in a second marriage).
Notable quotes
- “You can pay it back but you can pay it forward.” — the note left by Steve Green.
- “I can't even express to you how much you've changed my life.” — Jolena reflecting on the impact of that small kindness.
Lessons and reflections
- Small acts can have large ripple effects: A modest financial gesture coupled with emotional support can change someone’s trajectory.
- The power of a message: The wording of the note encouraged generosity and continuity rather than debt obligation.
- Thoughtful timing: Jolena’s choice to have her friends open the copied note after she left shows sensitivity to emotional vulnerability and the dignity of receiving help.
- Paying it forward is both symbolic and practical: Reproducing the note transmitted not only money or relief but also the same emotional reassurance Jolena received.
How to share your own unsung-hero story
Hidden Brain invites listeners to submit short recordings (about 3 minutes) recounting one moment when a single person showed unusual generosity. Record on your phone and email the file to: myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org.