Eraser Free

I’ve never doubted that people, for the most part, are inherently kind. But these days, it seems like you encounter more anger, disrespect and downright despicable behavior from those who somewhere along the way decided that it’s okay to treat people like they themselves would never want to be treated. I think it’s when the opposite happens to you that it leaves a lasting impression.

I remember about a year ago experiencing a “pay it forward” moment in the drive-through Starbucks line. I had heard about one probably a year earlier that went on for several hours before someone broke the magic.  On this particular day the barista at the window, who is still there and still as fun, kind and perky as ever, said I was No. 25. I, of course said I’d pay for the person’s drink behind me. I suppose I was lucky she wasn’t ordering for the entire office that day, but even then I would have still paid. Price aside, it leaves you with a good feeling that you’re doing something for someone else you don’t know.

And, while we give to charities and do as much as we can during the holidays, I’ll admit that I fall into that category of not being all that random with my acts of kindness.  It’s not that I haven’t thought about it and pondered numerous times about wanting to help someone, but I’ll admit I often over think it. “Is this the right way to help?” Are there more effective ways?”   By the time I’ve run through all the scenarios in my head my spontaneous moment of reaching out has passed.

Maybe that’s why I feel compelled to share me witnessing an incredibly random act of kindness last night. I was headed to our local QFC to pick up a few items for dinner. I drive up to my favorite spot at the front corner of the store.  I’ll admit it’s my favorite because nobody can park on your right side so it’s easy to get in and out and the risk of door dings it almost non-existent.

Sitting at the corner of the store, right in front of my car is a man with a sign that read something like: “I’m homeless, and yes, it’s totally my fault. I’ve made mistakes. But, if there’s any way you can help I’d appreciate it.”  I have to admit I read his entire sign and thought it was a pretty interesting approach. I don’t think I’ve ever seen an alleged homeless person’s sign actually be accountable for his/her problems.

He looked a little weathered, but lucid. He was reading a novel and he wasn’t actually speaking to anyone who passed him; he was just sitting. The fact is, he was located on the end of the store with not much foot traffic, so he’d chosen a pretty, quiet unassuming place for his “ask.”

My first thought was to ask him what he needed so I could buy it, but I didn’t. Then, when I came out I pondered whether I should give him money, but I’ve always steered away from that because of the risk of contributing to an ongoing problem, rather than actually helping.

 In the meantime, another gentleman came out and handed him a bag of groceries. He said something about how he hoped it help. He then asked him where he was staying. The guy said he was camping. Mr. Random Act then asked about him about staying warm. “It’s going to get cold tonight, do you have a coat, and do you have blankets?” I couldn’t hear exactly what Mr. Homeless said but something about he would try to stay warm. Mr. Random Act then asked whether he could use a coat. Mr. Homeless must have nodded. Mr. Random opened up his pickup and tossed him a down coat, saying he had two. It wasn’t just any old coat, I’m sure it was the coat the guy often wore. Not that he didn’t have another one, but I’m telling you it wasn’t some sort of hand-me-down.

That encounter was an incredible Random Act of Kindness, and I couldn’t help but give the guy a nod as he drove away. I followed him down into my neighborhood. 

This week will mark three years since we’ve lived in this community. I liked it from day one, and that short but significant interaction reinforced for me that people around here really are good and kind. So, to Mr. Random Act, maybe I’ll actually see you around the neighborhood and if I do, I’ll be sure to not hesitate in commending you for doing something that people like me wish they would do more of. You’ve given me the motivation to stop over thinking those kinds of moments, and simply help someone if I think they really need it. Thank you. You made my night.