I have been on crutches and in a wheelchair for a bit and it seems like an invitation to others to be kind and folks have taken it up: - when I was hoisting myself up the pool ladder, an older man came over and wordlessly picked up my crutches from the pool deck and handed them to me with a smile - a friend picked up lunch and brought it and herself to my house for lunch - my sweet husband brings crutches or wheelchair wherever I need them - friends offered transport to and from choir - a friend stayed after a meeting to help lift my heavy chair into the car’s trunk I have been blessed with a shower of kindness!
I worked my way through college as a Kroger cashier. I was often surprised at how impersonal and preoccupied customers typically were when coming through my line. Ever since then, whenever I’m in a comparable situation, I very intentionally greet cashiers with a smile and ask a question or make a remark that lets them know I’m interested in how they’re doing. I usually awaken a smile or get an interesting response— a brief moment of connection.
Jim Hollowood spent four months in hospice care at home last spring. Over that time, he became shaggier and shaggier. None of us caring for him felt able to give him a shave.
The ritual of a shave and a haircut was something Jim had always looked forward to. Hesitantly, I called his barber. Kind Mr. Foxx came and shaved him, twice.
His second visit was on the day Jim died. Somehow he knew Jim’s death was imminent, though I did not. He stayed with us for over an hour making gentle conversation.
It’s hard to say whether Jim was aware of his presence, but I felt his kindness in my bones, and I still do. — Judith Hollowood
I arrived at the airport parking deck early on a recent morning for my flight. I took the elevator down to the main floor and approach the moving walkway to the terminal. In front of me at the edge of the walkway was a young mother in a hijab carrying her baby, pushing a carriage loaded with stuff, and a massive suitcase by her side. I asked if she needed a hand. She nodded yes and said “suitcase” while pointing to the far other end of the walkway. I grabbed the suitcase with my one free hand and dragged it onto the walkway with me. As I started my mechanical journey, I noticed at the other end a gentleman was waving to me. I realized he was the woman’s partner and had two huge suitcases standing beside him. He greeted me with a huge smile, and extended his hands…one to shake mine and the other to grab the suitcase from me. We parted with a simple “Have a good day” and a smile.
