When Ben, my 12-year-old son, agreed to shovel snow for our wealthy neighbor, Mr. Dickinson,
for $10 a day, he was excited to earn money for thoughtful gifts for our family.
However, Mr. Dickinson refused to pay, claiming it was a “lesson in contracts.”
Ben was devastated, and I decided to teach Mr. Dickinson a lesson in accountability.
Ben had been working hard, shoveling snow every morning before school.
He tracked his progress carefully and was nearly $20 away from his goal of buying a telescope when Mr. Dickinson reneged on the payment.
Upset and frustrated, I went to Mr. Dickinson’s mansion, but he refused to pay, citing the lack of a contract.
Determined to teach him a lesson, my family and I moved all the snow from our driveway onto his, burying his car under a pile.
When Mr. Dickinson angrily confronted us, I calmly explained the concept of “quantum meruit,” meaning he shouldn’t enjoy the benefit of unpaid work.
The next evening, he reluctantly handed over $80 in cash and apologized.
Ben’s joy at receiving the money reminded me of the importance of standing up for what’s right.
