This month is the 2nd anniversary of my breakdown. It happened at work.
A few hrs before, I parked the car and sat alone on a bench in a very small park area in the CBD. I began to sob and couldn't stop. I looked up and watched as an elderly woman hobbled over and sat beside me. I tried to compose myself but was overcome with sadness and grief.
I didn't want to look at her as she sat patiently gazing my way. Then she slowly took my hand in hers and said very softly; "I can see you're having quite a hard time of it. Is there anything I can do dear?" I covered my mouth and held back an impulse to wail out loud, and managed to answer, albeit with shuddering and shaking; "Oh, don't worry about me, I'm fine." She rubbed my hand gently and replied; "No you're not. If there's anything I can get you, tell me now; please"
I wiped my face with my hands and gave an oh so painful smile; "It's nice to know there's still people who care...that's lovely, thankyou" She sighed and stood up. "You take care of yourself my dear. I'm heading off to church in a moment, so I'll say a special prayer for you while I'm there. Everything will turn out; you'll see" She walked back to her car and drove away. I held my breath until she was gone, and broke down in a fit of uncontrollable tears. What a beautiful and kind woman. My heart felt warm, but at the same time I felt broken.
Why did this genteel old lady afford me so much compassion? I didn't feel worthy.
For some reason, today I remembered this random act of kindness for the first time since it happened.
That day I was touched by an angel. How precious a soul she was to pray for a complete stranger on the street. I soon remembered many situations where I was helped by people wanting nothing more in return than a thankyou or smile, and to know they could assist in some way to make my life just a little bit better.
Please share your experiences of 'receiving' random acts of kindness from strangers. First time posters are very welcome to contribute.
It's certainly humbling to think my life has been enhanced through an offer of prayer. There 'is' such good in this world, we just need to remember.
Warm and kind thoughts...Dizzy xoxo
