Kindness

I read a question on facebook today that I thought was very neat. What is the kindest thing a stranger has said to you or done for you? Hmmm... What a nice thing to try to remember.

The first thing I thought of was once when I was traveling alone with the kids from Texas to WV and we were at a gas station in Lexington KY. I had filled up the car and when I tried to start the car again, it would not start. I had no idea what to do. I finally asked a man getting gas next to me for help. I think I asked him if he knew of a garage nearby. It turned out that he worked at the car dealership next door and he offered to help. He went back to the dealer and got a battery charger and started my car and then he gave me his card and told me if I had any more trouble within a couple of hours to please call him and he would come help. I had explained where I was driving from and to and that my husband was in the military (he was in Alabama at some training at the time). The man said that he could only hope that if his wife and kids were alone and in need like that, that someone would help them. And he thanked us and my husband for his military service.

That was definitely one of those times when I think an angel disguised himself (interesting that it was as a car salesman!).

I also tried to remember times when I have been the giver of a kindness. One thing I think of is a time in Texas when I was driving and saw a girl whose car was broken down and I stopped. It was close to our house and I really felt like it was okay for me to stop (-I prayed that it was as I stopped). I told her I could not help with the car but I asked her if she wanted to use my phone. She tried to call someone but couldn't get an answer and she asked me if I would take her back home and I did. She lived right next to the turn to our subdivision.

Helping strangers--and accepting help from strangers can be scary nowadays, but I am glad I did it that time. I hope that is not the only kind thing I have done!

It is very interesting to think about those things and be aware of opportunities. I know that sometimes something as simple as a smile can be helpful. I hope I always take advantage of any opportunity that God gives me to be kind or bless someone else!