Among Friends

[Greeneyedlady21]

The last three years of my life, well I'll just say many times it has saved me. Feeling at the end of my rope and someone came into my life..briefly or for a longer period and helped me in small ways to hang on. It was only since then that I have understood the true meaning of those words "the kindness of strangers".

Recently another example. I had planned a night out at Dancing With The Stars tour with my Mom. She's 81 and was very ill two years ago. She's doing better now but it has been a long tough road. For her and for me-going it mostly alone caring for her and I still do.

Got us both bargain fancy new outfits. I did her makeup, she looked so pretty in her sparkly dress. Used a luxury sedan from a limo company. We did it up like queens👑 

When we were leaving this lady said to my mother "You look so elegant, you could have been in the show". It just made me so happy, that's what I wanted for my Mom. It was the perfect ending to our night. Plus our driver was so nice, a real gentleman.

That lady has inspired me to make an effort to say things like that to strangers. My introverted nature stops me, that and fear of how they will react. 

But it is so true- be kind for you never know what battles someone is fighting.

The show was so good too, so much fun. We're going to do it again for Christmas, at the symphony. Instead of gifts. All I want is experiences with her, while she's still here.

[software]

I have to think there were many times in your life where you did a small kindness for someone, most likely a stranger and you are now reaping your reward.

Thanks for sharing your story.

Sometimes just a genuine smile at the right time to the right person can change their day.

@Greeneyedlady21

[Annabellethecat66]

You know I do that all of the time.  I'll be out somewhere (often grocery store) and see someone who looks like they've taken an extra minute getting dressed or maybe they just seem kind of down.

I keep on walking but lean in and say something like, "That color looks good on you."  Sometimes, "You look really pretty in that".  Just something kind (and they do look nice).

You can see immediately they stand a little straighter or give  smile....just a slight difference.  Sometimes I'll just say, "Have a good day".  I usually do that anyway with people I come in contact with during the day.

I have to admit though, it makes me feel really good.  Heck!  It brightens up my day too, a little reminder to me that I am so lucky to have good friends, good health, family that loves me....and I live in a Country and a time when I CAN get two new knees.  Ha!

[CareBears]

I have always gone out of my way to acknowledge people when I go out, a simple smile can sometimes mean the world to someone, as we never know what battles anyone is fighting or has been fighting, one small gesture is so easy for us to do, and that small gesture might be the only reassurance that they get that there is good people in this world, and it might give that glimmer of hope that they need to carry on and be proud of who they are!

[Q4u]

What  you say is so true, and what a blessing you have your dear Mother to hang with and pamper.... 

I also do that because I can't help it....  and I've had it done to me and it DOES feel good and what a wonderful world if there was more of it.

[kivah]

A couple of weeks ago, I went to a small market near my house to buy a few items. I put a small case of water on the bottom of the cart and several food items in the cart. I got on line, and a guy who was in front of me - offered to put the water on the conveyor belt. I told him that the cashier will scan it so he doesn't have to pick it up. When I'm shopping, I'm always oblivious to everything around me. I get to my car in the parking lot and put my groceries in the trunk. I felt someone looking at me - so I looked up --- and the same guy came over to me and asked if he could put the water in my car - and I said YES!!!! On the back of his t-shirt, it said U.S. Marine Corp. and Semper Fi. He was wearing camouflage pants. Tears came to my eyes. Made my day.

I just googled Marines and my city - and see that there's a Marines Recruiting Station right near my house.

[Oznell]

Beautiful post, greeneyedlady.  A very worthy goal, to be a bright spot in others' worlds.  

Also wishing you continued wonderful outings and experiences with your precious mother!

[GSPgirl]

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@Annabellethecat66 wrote:

You know I do that all of the time.  I'll be out somewhere (often grocery store) and see someone who looks like they've taken an extra minute getting dressed or maybe they just seem kind of down.

I keep on walking but lean in and say something like, "That color looks good on you."  Sometimes, "You look really pretty in that".  Just something kind (and they do look nice).

You can see immediately they stand a little straighter or give  smile....just a slight difference.  Sometimes I'll just say, "Have a good day".  I usually do that anyway with people I come in contact with during the day.

I have to admit though, it makes me feel really good.  Heck!  It brightens up my day too, a little reminder to me that I am so lucky to have good friends, good health, family that loves me....and I live in a Country and a time when I CAN get two new knees.  Ha!

---

I do the same thing and others compliment me, too.  Sometimes people look at me like I'm an idiot and don't say anything, but most times they say thank you.  Why not spread some sunshine when you are out and about?  

[lolakimono]

@Greeneyedlady21

[GCR18]

You've unlocked the secret of a happy life.  It's about the time we share with loved ones and the memories we make.  I just got back yesterday from visiting my mother for the week.  We went with my niece and visited my sister, then went out for a spontaneous lunch.  We had a great time.