Last week, my husband Larry and I flew to Michigan to attend our grandson Brigham's baptism. We were fortunate enough to be able to get our favorite seats--Larry got an aisle and I found a window, with one seat between us. I said a quick prayer of thanks that we would have a bit more room to stretch during the almost three hour flight.
It quickly became evident, though, that the plane would be filled to capacity, and I resigned myself that the center seat would be taken..
Within a few minutes, a stewardess announced that mother with a young child needed two seats together. Would anyone consider changing seats so that she could keep her child with her?
I volunteered and moved to a center seat in a different row. Once I was settled in to my new seat, I saw the young mother with a little boy make their way down the narrow aisle. In her arms was a tiny baby. I was doubly glad I'd offered to change seats. I remember traveling with two little children and being grateful for any help given along the way. The stewardess thanked me profusely and offered me a free (alcoholic) drink. I told her that wasn't necessary.
I relate this story not to "brag" about how generous I was in changing seats, for, in truth, it was a small matter and cost me nothing. It did, however, remind me that we are all in the position to extend a kindness. What would our world be like if we each gave a little something extra every day? Could we offer a compliment on a stranger's beautiful necklace? Could we volunteer to drive an older friend to the grocery store? Could we pick up trash in our neighborhood? The possibilities are limitless.
This I know for sure: I can't change the world, but I can make my small slice of it a better place.
Love this story Jane. I have been that young mother many times. A simple act of kindness can make a huge difference!
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet story. Small acts of kindness go a long way.
ReplyDeleteI've never liked the phrase 'random acts of kindness.' It seems to me that kindness ought to be deliberate, just as your volunteering to switch seats was. It may not have been planned in advance, but it was a deliberate choice and one that made a young mother's flight easier and more pleasant.
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, thank you! While toting my youngest four children around through several lines today, I had the dubious honor of having the same woman cut in front of me not once, not twice, but three different times. I know what you're thinking. Why didn't I say something? Honestly, it was not safe for me to say anything at that point. Anything I had to say should not be said in front of small children. Your post restores my faith in the basic goodness of people. When I take an objective look back, I have to admit that this woman was totally oblivious to the situation. She meant no harm, so why should I? After all, my rancor only hurts me and my children now.
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