We
never truly know how what we do and how we behave affects others. I, for one,
hope my actions and behavior have for the most part had a positive effect. I’m
sure I am not alone in this but I also don’t think I’m in the majority.
For
example, simple kindnesses. When you are on a plane and disembarking or
embarking for that matter, do you let the people in front of you go ahead? Or
do you push forward, every man for himself? This is such a small courtesy, yet
it’s a bit like a small war. Who’s On First! Is your seat going anywhere? Who’s
Off First! I know we all have connections, but really? Is it a competition?
Another
simple kindness, letting someone in the grocery line with two items go ahead of
you if you have a full cart. Stopping to admire (and pat, if you are very
lucky) a stranger’s dog. Thanking a representative for handling an inquiry on
the phone. Not yelling or being sh**ty because your bill was wrong, or the
service technician was not on time. As if it’s their fault.
We
are bombarded by details; we have to handle so many as we navigate an
increasingly fast-paced world. Let’s face it, it’s stressful. It may be why so
many of us bury our faces in our phones, or in computer games or TV. (Game of Thrones won’t solve any problems
but it sure makes you forget yours for a while.)
Have
you ever known someone who is always mad about something? I have a girlfriend who
is always complaining. It wears me out. We are friends by six degrees. Long
story. But I find myself avoiding her. Not very kind of me, actually. In my
defense, she always seems annoyed at my good nature. As a compromise, I try to
push love her way and move on. That’s a small kindness, too.
On
the other hand, many years ago I met some wonderful women in Romania. I only
spent a handful of days with them in person but they have remained, in spite of
time and distance, heart friends.
We
all leave footprints on one another, whether we mean to or not. So here’s my
pitch. Be unfailingly kind. I promise, it doesn’t hurt. Watch where you step.
