Returned a library book four years late yesterday.
The librarian scanned it, looked at her screen, then at me.
Her: This was due September 2019.
Me: I know.
Her: The fine is two hundred and forty dollars.
Me: I know.
Her: (pause)
Her: Why are you returning it now?
Me: I'm moving. Found it in a box. Couldn't leave town knowing I stole from the library.
Her: You didn't steal it. You borrowed it and forgot.
Me: For four years.
Her: What's the book?
Me: "How to Build Better Habits."
Her: (trying not to smile)
Her: The irony is not lost on me.
Me: Can I just pay the fine?
Her: We cap fines at fifty dollars. But I have to ask.....did you read it?
Me: Three times, actually. Kept meaning to return it.
Her: Did it work? The habits thing?
Me: (pause)
Me: I'm here, aren't I?
She waived the fine completely.
Her: Consider it a graduation gift.
Me: From what?
Her: From being the person who keeps things for four years.
I checked out a new book before leaving. She smiled when she scanned it.
Her: This one's due in three weeks.
Me: I'll have it back in two.
I did.
She looked genuinely shocked.
Her: Character growth.
Me: Told you the book worked.
Small victories.
But they count.
11-0 AND COUNTING! 🇯🇵🔥
The unstoppable Japan Men's National Team has extended its incredible winning streak to 11 consecutive victories in the 2026 Volleyball Nations League!
Now, Japan is just one win away from a historic 12-0 finish in the preliminary round, a remarkable achievement that would further cement its status as the team to beat heading into the #VNLFinals.
Can anyone stop Japan's dominant run, or will they carry this unbeaten streak all the way to the VNL gold medal? 👇
#VNL2026 #Volleyball #バレーボール
📸 Volleyball World