How a Kind Deed Can Transform a Day

A reminder to be unexpectedly, modestly or even extravagantly generous to others.

Kindness toward others

We all know that Jesus urged us to treat others as we would want to be treated, to love our neighbors as ourselves. I would propose that when that happens it’s a form of prayer.

Sometimes, though, what others want to do unto you is not exactly what you’re expecting. It can take you by surprise.

The other day, a blustery winter day, I got on to the subway and sat next to a perfect stranger gazing at her phone. I took out the book I was reading.  Totally absorbed, I was lost to the world.

Now I should tell you that my wife has suggested I carry a packet of tissues with me in my parka or in my briefcase in case I ever need them. Good advice that I have never followed. This must be a guy thing; I tell myself, “When am I ever going to need tissues?”

Read More: Banking on an Angel

That blustery day, that wintery day, my nose was running. (Forgive me for going into too much detail here.) My nose was running, and I didn’t notice it.

Apparently, though, someone else did. All at once the stranger sitting next to me reached into her purse and took out a fresh packet of tissues, dangling them in front of my (dripping) nose.

I don’t mean to make her gesture sound rude. It was graciously done and kindly meant.

“Thank you,” I said, “that’s very nice of you.” I pulled a few tissues out of the packet. It was like being offered a breath mint. If someone offers you a breath mint, you take it. No questions asked.

I dabbed at my nose, grateful for the tissue. I put the second one in my pocket for reserve.

I returned to my book. She returned to whatever she was reading on her cell phone. She got off a couple of stops later. We exchanged smiles. That was all.

Later I read something in that book about generosity and how a kind deed could transform a day. I thought of the stranger. Then I put my hand in the pocket of my parka. There was the second tissue.

I like keeping it there, to remind me to be similarly, unexpectedly, modestly or even extravagantly generous. Someday I hope I make someone else’s day.

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