The kindness and generosity of a stranger that I will never forget

Two weeks ago I received an email from someone I didn't know. I met them a few days later, for a brief moment, and all I could do was smile and say thank you for your kindness and generosity - this means so much to me. Actually, I think I said thank you about 5 times.

Here is the email:

Hi Michelle,

I just read Dylan’s story in the Newport Beach Independent. I think his dedication to his dreams and concern for wildlife at such a young age is not only admirable but, inspirational.

Given his passion for Tigers, I have something he might be interested in having. It’s a beautifully framed picture of a tiger (believe it’s a Bengal or Malayan – not sure). It’s a print by a well known artist, Jouve. It measures about 30” x 45 or so.

It retails for about $140 online. I’ve had it listed on Craigslist for $45 but, frankly that site brings out people who aren’t serious or who make an initial inquiry but never respond back. I thought given the excellent condition and low price, I’d surely find a buyer but, I didn’t.

I then saw Dylans great story this am…. I’d like to give it to him, or you can give it to him as a gift yourself (doesn’t matter to me), no charge. Given his passion for Tigers, I think he might enjoy having it?

I’ve attached some pics of the painting. If you think he might be interested in it, please let me know. I’m local in Corona del Mar. Thank you.

The picture now hangs in our living room.

Tigre Royal

I may never see this person again, but I will remember them forever. This gift means more than any amount of money donated for Dylan's birthday wish because this gift came from the heart. This gift is priceless.

Pierre-Paul Jouve was an acclaimed sculptor and illustrator - he is known for his depiction of big cats and for illustrating a French edition of Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book. Some of his work can be seen in the National Museum of Wildlife Art, located in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.