When my 12-year-old son Ben agreed to shovel snow for our wealthy neighbor Mr. Dickinson for $10 a day, he was overjoyed. His plan was simple: earn enough money to buy thoughtful gifts for the family. But when Mr. Dickinson refused to pay, calling it a “lesson in contracts,” Ben was devastated. That’s when I decided it was time for a lesson of our own—a lesson in accountability.
Ben had always had a heart bigger than his years. At just 12, his determination could humble grown men. Still, I never imagined I’d be standing with my husband in the freezing cold, enacting a plan to teach our neighbor that cheating a child wasn’t just bad business—it was personal.
“Mom! Mr. Dickinson said he’ll pay me $10 every time I shovel his driveway!” His face was glowing with pride.Mr. Dickinson, our insufferably wealthy neighbor, was known for his arrogance. He reveled in flaunting his luxurious lifestyle, from the sleek sports cars in his garage to the extravagant holiday parties in his mansion. Letting Ben shovel his driveway was probably, in his mind, some sort of charitable gesture.
“That’s fantastic, sweetheart,” I said, tousling his hair. “What are you going to do with all that money?”Ben’s expression grew serious—one of those rare moments when childhood excitement gives way to a glimpse of maturity. “I’m going to buy you a scarf. And a dollhouse for Annie.”