In a world full of confusion and uncertainty, taking the time to show a little extra kindness and compassion is never a bad idea.
I was constantly reminded as a child growing up that treating others the way you would want to be treated was so important. Did I get that right every day? No, I failed daily. We are human; we are not perfect. Though we aren’t perfect, using that as an excuse shouldn't be an opportunity to not show kindness.
There have been many times over the past couple of years that I have thought there was no hope and that most had forgotten what true kindness and compassion looked like. Yesterday, my hope was restored.
While waiting my turn at my doctor's office, I watched as an elderly man was pushed in his wheelchair by a younger gentleman who looked to be in his mid-20s. They were talking and laughing a bit. I watched them very closely because the young man seemed so respectful and helpful to not only the gentleman but everyone else as well.
He constantly watched to see if anyone needed the door opened for them to go out, and if they did, he rushed over to make sure he was there to do it. At one point, the elderly gentleman was concerned about his hair, and I watched as the young man fixed it for him and reminded him how handsome he was.
I honestly had to hold back the tears. They weren’t family, so this was not expected of the young man. Obviously, this young man's parents did an amazing job of teaching him how important showing kindness and genuine respect really is.
This young man had no idea that anyone was watching. He wasn’t doing it for that. It was apparent that his care and compassion were true and genuine. I don’t know if anyone else saw it or if it affected them the way it did me, but my day was truly brightened.
It was a beautiful reminder that taking the time to show kindness hasn’t been forgotten. We should all be reminded that one day someone may be pushing us in our wheelchair to our next appointment, and I don’t know about you, but I definitely want to be treated the way this gentleman was treated.
So, today, take that extra moment to smile at someone, hold a door, pay a compliment, give a hug or just remind someone that you are there to help if they need it. Pay it forward! Let this young man inspire you as he did me. Remind the world that kindness still exists and it really does matter.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email ashley.carter@1819news.com.
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