You know how you sometimes have those days that you feel sort of blah. Not necessarily in a good mood and not necessarily in a bad mood. I had one of those days today...until this happened.
I had to go to the bank today to make a few changes to my account. Once I got out of the car, I saw this woman standing outside crying. I started to ignore it and continue about my business but I stopped and asked her is she was okay.
Apparently, she really needed someone to talk to because that opened the floodgates. She flew into my arms like I was an old friend and sobbed for what seemed like an eternity. Once she finally calmed down, she told me that she had just went in to try to make an arrangement to keep her home but the bank would not work with her.
I didn't get into the details but I tell her that I hoped everything would work out for her. She thanked me for listening and then went on her way. After that, my day changed for the better.
I had to ask myself why I was feeling blah when things are good in my life. My mortgages and all of my bills are up to date. I have a good job that pays a decent salary. I have great family and friends. Sometimes, you have to stop and put things in prospective. I have nothing to be blah about; I just need to remember how lucky I am. Things could certainly be alot worse! I don't talk alot about religion on my blog but I have to say I am not only lucky but I am blessed.
That was a wonderful thing you did. Just being there and listen is a great thing to do. Thank you.
You did a very good thing today. It may have actually changed her life by some stranger just listening even for a bit. Hopefully she will be ok and glad that it opened your eyes for the day. I don't have it too easy but at the same time it isn't that bad either. i am always thankful for what I have though when looking at what everyone else is facing these days
Way to not ignore it. Many people would have.
That was really nice of you to listen.
I like reading posts like this because I also have days when I feel like we're financially struggling. All I could keep on thinking about is how to get rich and get out of debt soon. Like you, we are always on time with our payments and we have money left to blow. And we can afford our rent!
Oy! Humans can be so discontented with things.
Way to be an exceptional guy. That must have been horribly painful (and embarrassing for her), but in a small way you probably made it better. Which most people wouldn't have done.
Interesting - the same thing just happened to me when I had an unproductive and frustrating morning of errands. I was finishing some shopping when I saw a very elderly lady slowly shuffle into the store, carrying her oxygen tank. She just stopped short in the entry for a while, so I asked her if she needed help; well, she said she had to catch her breath before she could continue. I was ashamed of myself for being so frustrated, when in reality, I'm sure I was much more productive than this little woman just because I can walk comfortably and not get tired. You are right, we are so blessed and I know God is taking care of us every step of the way. Thank you for a very inspiring post!
God works in mysterious ways. That was very nice of you to be there for her, and I bet she has no idea what she did for you.
Re: your last sentence, Amen to that!!
Most people would just walk right by that woman and think it's none of my business. It's great that you took the time to demonstrate concern for her. Sounds like she really appreciated it and it made your day as well.
About 10 years ago, I was having a hard day, I can't remember why. I was in an airport around 4am, carrying too many bags and about ready to cry. A man walked past and saw that I was distressed and told me that things would be alright, God wasn't done with me yet.
I will never forget him, and I think of this every time I'm having a hard day.
Kindnesses that we do for strangers can be life-changing for them. I try to remember this and do the gift for others.
How wonderful of you to be kind to that woman.
The world could certainly do with more kindness. And it's amamzing how when we're kind to others our day gets better.
Oh, stories like that always make me go: wow, you never know what kinds of things people are going through.
I'll echo everyone else who's commented here: way to be a listener and friend to a stranger. That was very kind.
Not a day goes by when I don't count my blessings. I make my kids recite daily all the things that make them happy and what they are grateful for. I have found that this little habit has been life changing. Thanks for the post!