Money the great

Money certainly can be a great leveler, the proof I have seen in my own eyes. Like every tax season, last year I was doing my Volunteer Tax Preparation for low income people a couple who as usual where seating across me, while I prepared their taxes. As I was busy going through their documents, entering them on the IRS website, the couple were busy bickering among themselves.

Their verbal cat fight ( a ritual amongst all married couples) was reaching zenith. Tax Preparation needs utmost focus and the couple's rambling was an irritating drag on my work. My cup of patience was full. I was about to mildly reprimand them when all of a sudden their Refund Amount popped up on the screen. They were getting around $3600 back which was a hefty amount in proportion to their income.(The so called low income folks here come to file taxes driving cars, smoke Camel, stand in line until the door opens and wait patiently when their turn comes).

 

I interrupted their bickering, announcing the Refund amount which is going to land up in their Bank Account in 2-3 weeks once I e-file their Returns.Their face suddenly glowed, words turned sweeter. The husband now started calling the wife Sweetie. The wife reciprocated with calling her hubby Honey. They high-fived and praised Good Lord for being generous to them that morning. (Little they understood that it's their own money they are getting back from IRS who holds on to more than a year with 0% APR). The animosity that existed between the squabbling couple only moments ago, was now gone. With a smiling face they warmly shook my hands and bid adieu. No question, Money certainly can be a great leveler. Their reaction made me remember the good ole rhyme

 

"Money money money.
Brighter than sunshine,
Sweeter than Honey".