Stories of Kindness from Around the World

A Big Piece Of Humble Pie


--by tambu, posted May 8, 2007
I ran out of gas less than one block from the local gas station.   While waiting in line to ask if they had a gas can I could use, I was watching the new cashier trainee.  I was judging his appearance and demeanor:  prison tattoos up his neck and down his arms, not making eye contact with the customers nor thanking anyone, insecure about what he was doing...

When my turn came and I asked if they had a gas can.  The  girl training him (who is familiar with me) said, "No, but we have one you can buy."  I like to think that I live in a small town where everyone is able to help one another ... but sometimes not. 

The new cashier, however, looked up at me and said, "I have one in the back of my truck you can use, if you'll bring it back." 

I thanked him profusely.  I was ashamed of how I had been judging and, at the same time, delighted that, once again, the universe had provided me with another  lesson in kindness!
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Readers Comments

afriendlysmile wrote: Hi tambu

Once when I broke down the cars just whizzed by but a leather clad biker stopped and got me going again.

Never judge a book by is cover, springs to mind.

Afriendlysmile :)
bluqtgyrl wrote: That was very nice of him! Never judge a person by his/her looks, that's very true. =]
Aurelia wrote: That's so true. We don't know what lives people have lived and to judge by appearance isn't fair. I have learned a lesson from this story. I'm smiling from it's awakening. ~Aurelia
meeee wrote: thats kool. haha nice person =]
gobbogotacomment wrote: wat a story but da gal hu waz tranin is a little selfish
tommayj wrote: it shows that you shouldnt think that a person is mean because they look threatening
sasha wrote: This reminds me os the saying, "Looks can be decieving"
MsJava wrote: What a good reminder for many of us who are quick to judge on appearance.
wayfarer wrote: The Samaritans in the Bible were kinda despised people. Looks like you found another Good one.
Amanda4384 wrote: What a great reminder to us all! Thanks!

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