Random Acts of Kindness

"Your greatness is measured by your kindness; 

your education and intellect by your modesty; 

your ignorance is betrayed by your suspicions and prejudices, 

and your real caliber is measured by the consideration and tolerance you have for others."

~William J.H. Boetcker

I was just finishing my lunch today at the North Hill Centre food court, when suddenly, a box of blueberries fell and landed underneath a nearby table where an older woman was also having lunch. I rushed to pick up what was left of her blueberries in its container and gave it to her. I tried to pick up the scattered ones and she told me she doesn’t want the ones that are already in the floor. A lady janitor immediately went to work, removing the blueberries off the floor.  

The older woman, who told me she’s 79 years old, looked so disappointed and dejected, telling me she loves blueberries to go with her cereal and yogurt. I told her this fruit is one of the top 5 fruits in terms of health benefits. After a few more conversations with her about the merits of eating blueberries, I excused myself and ran to the nearest Safeway store, logging my heavy gym bag in my back. I knew what to buy--a box of blueberries!

I returned to the food court and gave her the box of blueberries. She was so surprised and gave me an immense, happy smile, thanked me profusely, and told me she wants a hug to go with the blueberries. I gave her a tight hug and at that instant, she was no longer a stranger having lunch in the food court who lost 2/3 of her blueberries. She was a person transformed by a little act of kindness.

Lesson: A small act of kindness goes a long way. It creates joy and happiness between the giver and the receiver and its impression could last a long time.