Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Connecting With The Locals


--by AndiCas, posted Apr 18, 2016
My skills in the Local's language aren't very good, so I tend to avoid more than waves and smiles to the old ladies of the area as nine times out of ten I have no idea what they're talking about. Some months ago the local bar closed down, and with it the only place in walking distance that the local ladies could be guaranteed finding someone to pass the time of day with.

Today I was loading my truck when one of the ladies approached. She'd obviously spotted me when I drove in and changed her route to pass me. Instead of shouting a greeting and carrying on, today I put down my load and went over to her. I gave her the customary kisses and she chatted to me whilst she held my hands. I honestly couldn't tell you what she said, but I KNOW she appreciated that brief moment of connection.
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Readers Comments

ChristineAZ wrote: That is very wonderful
joanellenhoo wrote: I can just picture the joy in your faces. I have often found that a smile and nod of encouragement can go a long way. I also thought the idea of founding a new gathering place might be worthy of you ( and /or others) attention.
Mish wrote: Lovely elder kindness 👍
splain wrote: Andrea that was so lovely. Words are good but your connection was everything else.
mindyjourney wrote: A kind heart and a smile <3, while holding your hands :))). So very very sweet, my friend.
alisamom wrote: How wonderful of you! If the elderly ladies where you are are the same as the eldery ladies here and in Germany then I'm not surprised you can't understand them, it's like a whole other language no matter what the language!
kiwicat wrote: oh no, the bar closing down! I love your stories about the bar lady and her incessant need for multiple plastic bags! Where do you get your produce etc from now?
leoladyc728 wrote: lovely connection. Sometimes words aren't always necessary to understand. My childhood boyfriend was Greek. His grandmother couldn't speak a word of English and we got along fine. I learned some Greek words and she learned a few English.
terre wrote: Words are not necessary for true connections. You've just experienced that!
info66 wrote: There are phone apps, that translate.. If not sooken too quickly that is. Sounds like a great connection none the less ^_^

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