Christie C. Describe a random encounter with a stranger that stuck out positively to you.
One morning, I was on my way to Panera Bread to grab breakfast. I had just experienced some disheartening news, had a rough observation on the job, was overworked by the high expectations and limited resources, and feeling undervalued and ready to change my course in life.
A lady with short and beautiful salt and pepper locs was waiting for a massive order she had made for the nurses at the local hospital. She went up to me and said, “Ma’am, may I pay for your breakfast this morning?”
I was dumbfounded, and somehow felt guilty for at first turning down the offer while also feeling guilty accepting her offer.
After thanking her behind curtains of tears, I asked, “Why?”
She said, “No particular reason; just pay it forward.” We talked for a time. It didn’t matter that I was going to be a little late to work. Her gesture was the lift I needed to make it through the week.
I was so overwhelmed by her kindness that every time I meet people, her wonderful face, words, and gesture pops into my head to remind me:
Community, giving and taking, and kindness are the missing links to our trashed world. I paid it forward to a child next, and it was heartwarming to see their face brighten.
Always start the day with a little kindness. It goes a long way.
