“Thank You, M’am” is a thought-provoking short story written by Langston Hughes, featured in the English 1st-year textbook. This poignant narrative explores themes of compassion, redemption, and the power of a second chance. The story revolves around the unexpected encounter between Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, a strong-willed, no-nonsense woman, and Roger, a young boy attempting to steal her purse. Instead of turning him over to the police, Mrs. Jones chooses to take Roger home with her, offering him not only food and care but also a life-changing lesson in kindness and trust.
Through this encounter, Langston Hughes skillfully highlights the transformative potential of empathy and the profound impact a single act of understanding can have on a person’s life. “Thank You, M’am” is a timeless tale that reminds us of the human capacity for compassion and the possibility of redemption, making it a valuable addition to the English 1st-year curriculum.