The Kindness of Strangers

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kindness of strangersThe other day I was strolling my cart through the grocery store, minding my business, just trying to get through the mundanity of my weekly shopping trip. To my surprise, as I was about to grab a bag of baby carrots and a kind gentleman complimented my maxi dress and said I brought a ray of sunshine into the store with me. Wait, what??? I have to say I was taken aback at the sheer positivity of his statement and just how happy it made me feel. I thanked him, telling him he made my day, and we began chatting.

The kindness of strangers can change your perspective.  

He happened to be a single man, probably mid-20s, and was watching his three visiting goddaughters for a few days. He relayed to me how exhausting the last few days had been and yet so rewarding at the same time. It made me stop and think about all the wonderful moments of the past summer, having the kids home from school and filling our days with fun activities.

But it also reminded me of the times that make you want to sit, cry, and pull your hair out. All of these moments – good and bad are what shape our lives, and it’s up to us to see the beauty in them (even if it feels impossible while the bad ones are happening).

The gentleman went on to tell me that his goddaughters had been through some recent trauma, and he was hoping their visit with him was helping to lift their spirits. I assured him that they will remember all the special times with him and how his presence in their lives was a blessing to help them heal. He, in turn, really helped me put into perspective all the minutia I may dwell on in any given day, yet in the grand scheme of life, it really doesn’t matter. 

So, I implore you, next time you’re at the store, school pickup line, dentist office, etc., try giving someone a quick compliment. I promise it will make both of you feel great and ready to face the day with a renewed sense of positivity.

I’ll definitely be doing so the next time I pick up a bag of those baby carrots. 

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