December 17, 2007 And the Kindness of a Stranger

Lately, I can hardly get through a day without tears at some point.

They come unannounced and more often than not, unwelcomed.

At the Hallmark store Monday evening, while picking out a birthday card for my son, Patrick, I stood there reading the cards with tears streaming down my face. Anyone who knows me, knows I do this when reading sappy cards, but I couldnt stop and as I stood there, reading, a man standing next to me, who obviously noticed the wet cheeks, said not a word, but placed his hand on my arm and gave it a squeeze. It was, without doubt, a generous, kind gesture, completely unexpected.

I looked at him and tried to speak, but couldn't. It didn't matter for he seemed to know what I wanted to say and he smiled at me, patted my arm again and walked away. I stood there thinking of how many times we push and shove our way through life, not paying attention to others and certainly not caring if someone might be in pain. I am in pain this December and all the love in the world from people who matter hasn't seemed to matter as much as this complete stranger and his kindness.

Whoever, wherever you are, thank you.