Stories of Kindness from Around the World

As I was leaving the grocery store yesterday, I noticed an old man hobbling along struggling with 2 sacks of food.  It was bitterly cold (10 F).  There isn't much near the store, so I guess he must have a fair walk ahead of him.  I pulled up near him, rolled the car near him and put the window down to ask if he needed a ride.  I think he was a bit skeptical since few people go out of their way to do these sorts of things, but he did accept. 

After he got settled in the car, my husband and I introduced ourselves, but he was very quiet and reluctant to give his name. During the drive, we tried to make him more comfortable with some small talk.  We chatted on about the weather, this new store opening and the like. His home was more than 2 miles away on unplowed streets, it would have been a difficult walk for anyone, let alone an old man carrying bags.  

When we pulled up outside his door, the first thing he asked is "How much money do you want?"  My husband and I both in concert answered "Nothing, we just wanted to help".  The shock and relief on this man's face was actually sad, because we should be able to live in a world where it isn't shocking to have someone help you out of the goodness of their heart without expecting something in return. After realizing we truly didn't want anything, he kept thanking us over and over. 

My only words to him were, sir, I hope this helped you out and have a good week.   These simple act of kindness, just seeing him walking and then doing something about it, are the types of kindnesses that anyone, anywhere can do.  It doesn't cost a cent.  Just be aware of the world happening around you. There is always someone who needs something - a door held, a bag carried... the opportunities are endless. And I truly hope this may be a beginning of this man practicing acts of kindness - just because it happened to him.  Oh, and the best part, my excitement, happiness and peace just knowing I helped a fellow human being.