What is the cause and effect of thank you m'am?

In "Thank You, Ma'am" by Langston Hughes, the cause is a young boy named Roger attempting to steal a woman's purse in a moment of desperation. The effect is that the woman, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, instead of punishing him, takes him to her home, showing him kindness and understanding. This encounter leads Roger to reflect on his actions and ultimately makes him reconsider his choices, illustrating the power of compassion and mentorship in transforming lives.