Swandeh Terhide

Sometimes unexpected events leave us in awe, rendering us unable to express anything more than a simple thank you. Truly, we may never know the depth of impact, random acts of kindness can have on others. In a recent visit to a Dollar Tree, where a woman was shopping for inexpensive items for her classroom, specifically looking for hands-on experiences for toddlers and preschoolers. As she entered the toy section, she noticed a grown man with a couple of friends, holding a toy that made a whistling sound when twirled above his head. The man appeared hesitant to try the toy, possibly because of the woman’s presence or perhaps due to his age. Noticing his reluctance, she encouraged him to embrace his inner child, assuring him that life is too short to worry about what others might think. The gentleman took the advice, played with the toy, and smiled widely, prompting laughter from both of them. Later, the same man approached the woman and inquired if the items in her basket were for her students. The man extended his hand and offered a gift card for the Dollar Tree, stating that he wanted to help with their purchases. The woman’s face brightened in astonishment, feeling speechless and in shock, unable to articulate the emotions she was experiencing. Both she and the young man left Dollar Tree feeling invigorated, having stepped outside their usual shopping routines to engage in each other’s lives.

On a sweltering summer day, a family found themselves stranded on a remote Midwestern Road when their car ran out of gas. Faced with the daunting task of reaching the nearest service station, the father decided to embark on the long trek, leaving his wife and children behind in the shade of the vehicle. As he trudged along the hot asphalt, he hoisted a heavy steel gas can. Passing a nearby construction site, he noticed the workers lounging in the shade, enjoying their lunches and escaping the heat. Pricked by compassion, one of the workers called out to him and tossed his keys over, offering the man his truck. Grateful for the unexpected gesture, the father accepted the keys, knowing this act of kindness would make all the difference. A couple of hours later, the family returned to their stranded car, this time in the comfort of the worker’s truck. They filled up the gas can and thanked the construction crew for their generosity. From that day forward, every time the family passed a construction site, they felt a warm appreciation in their hearts for the kindness of strangers and it changed their overall psychological make up of what humanity entails. Each of us has what it takes to make life easy for someone else. However, if we can’t help them, let’s at least not add to their burden.

A heartwarming incident that made my face brighten up with renewed hope in the inherent good of humans. As the chill of the night crept in, a homeless man sought refuge under the bridge, his bicycle his only companion. Curled up on a thin blanket, he braced himself against the cold, his weary eyes scanning the darkness. It was then that a passerby, moved by the sight of this homeless man’s plight, approached him with a simple question: “Do you need anything?” His response was a humble one, “I could use some food.” Without hesitation, the passerby set out to find something warm and nourishing. He returned with two steaming sandwiches, a bottle of water, and a pack of ten hand warmers, a small gesture that ignited a spark of hope in the homeless man’s heart. As he gratefully accepted the food and warmth, his words of thanks poured forth in a most sincere way. Kindness in a world that can often feel cold and just cruel, isn’t just a necessity but a requirement. Life will get much better if we make efforts to improve the situation of others, positively.

In a very inspiring story from Chongqing, China, a man named Wang faced a whirlwind of emotions when he accidentally left his bag, containing an engagement ring, outside a local sour and spicy noodle shop. Upon realizing his mistake, he rushed back, only to find that a little girl had found the bag and given it to the restaurant manager to prevent it from being stolen. Grateful for the return of his precious ring, Wang proposed to his girlfriend later that day, and she happily accepted. To celebrate their engagement and express his gratitude, he decided to treat 5,000 customers to free bowls of spicy noodles, equivalent to the shop’s daily sales. A long queue formed outside the restaurant as eager patrons awaited their complimentary meals. Wang also posted a heartfelt letter outside the shop, stating, “Chongqing has the woman I love and so many nice people. I feel very honored and happy.” The feeding of 5000 people that day is very symbolic of the multiplier effect of random acts of kindness. In all your dealings, embrace kindness and do to others as you’d have it done to you.

Years after being convicted for armed robbery, Rameil Pitamber found an unexpected mentor in the police officer who arrested him. At just 17, Pitamber was devastated by his father’s death in 2013, which led him to attempt a robbery at gunpoint. He was arrested, convicted, and sentenced to 11 years in prison. Deputy Police Chief Brian Nugent was the officer who arrested Pitamber – but even after helping to put the youngster behind bars, Pitamber’s mother stayed in touch with the policeman so she could convince him that her son was not just another criminal.  After Pitamber was released early for good behavior, he recognized the need for mentorship to avoid repeating his past mistakes. Fate intervened when Pitamber encountered Nugent while working at a Goodwill store. He asked Nugent to be his mentor, and their conversation blossomed into a meaningful relationship. Pitamber expressed gratitude for Nugent’s compassion and support, stating, “He never treated me as less than. With him in my corner, I can do anything.” Their mentorship included monthly meetings focused on job searching and navigating the challenges Pitamber faced due to his background. Through Nugent’s guidance, Pitamber learned to view himself positively and embrace his identity beyond his past. Now employed in heating and air conditioning, Pitamber is also renovating his home and pursuing education. He reflects on his journey, stating, “I want something out of life. I want to be successful and truly free.” Nugent sees the transformation in Pitamber, particularly in his confidence, and believes there is no greater reward than helping someone succeed. Standing in full glare is the power of compassion and understanding, proving that respect and mentorship can bridge divides, correct erring souls and foster positive change. We can do our jobs effectively and still keep the bar of kindness very high just like Brian Nugent did.