In this week’s installment of “Beg-Knows America,” CBS News contributor David Begnaud took on a spontaneous mission: find an inspiring story within 48 hours. With only a plane ticket and a destination, Begnaud landed in Chattanooga, Tennessee, determined to meet new people and discover stories.
A call to kindness
The journey began on the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, where Begnaud held a sign reading, “I’m looking for a story.” It didn’t take long for someone to stop by. That someone was 22-year-old Ben Pate, a college student and psychology major with a passion for helping others.
“I think that empathy and compassion are some of the most powerful forces in the world,” said Pate. He shared that witnessing acts of kindness and supporting those in need “set his soul on fire.” Recently, he helped a homeless woman by bringing her water and ibuprofen, an experience that left him feeling inspired.
“There was also this part of me that was like I wish I could do more,” said Pate.