An Ke talks with a visitor in her store. [Sichuan Daily/Xiao Yuyang]

A female shop owner from the city of Chengdu in southwest China's Sichuan Province has offered freetea to visitors who share their little-known personal life stories with her over the past four years.

An Ke, who sells handicrafts, says that one day the sunshine outside shone particularly brightly onto her storefront. As she was drinking, a passerby entered, attracted by the warm atmosphere.

An promptly gave the visitor a cup of green tea, she recalled.

After sharing the brew with him, the storekeeper suggested he tell her a story from his own life as payment. Since then, more and more people ranging from the elderly to youngsters have come to An's store to share their experiences.

"Many people hope to pour out their feelings. I am willing to be a listener and record what they have to say," An explained.

As time goes on, An has collected more than 10,000 stories told by people from different parts of the country. In 2015, she published a book about these tales, which have deeply moved many readers, An stated with pride.

Meanwhile, she has taken the lead in setting up a public welfare alliance focusing on caring for so-called "left-behind" children (whose parents have left their homes to find better-paying jobs in cities) and youngsters with physical impairments.

An maintained that she will continue making efforts to help such vulnerable groups, hoping that every visitor who enjoys the free tea in her store can be encouraged to do good and follow her example.

An Ke shows a message written by a visitor. [Sichuan Daily/Xiao Yuyang]

An Ke drinks tea with a visitor in her store. [Sichuan Daily/Xiao Yuyang]

(Source: Sichuan Daily/Translated and edited by Women of China)

Editor: Jane Wang