The Kindness of Strangers

Today I experienced a small, heartening display of humanity. I found myself in need and unsure of where to turn. When I reached out my hand, I found three hands waiting to pull me up from the darkness I was sitting in. I won't lie; The first response I received was a rap on the knuckles. It stung. It brought tears to my eyes, to be honest. I decided, however, that I could be bigger than my pain. I wished my aggressor well and took comfort in the kindness of my neighbours. It felt good to know that I didn't sink down to their level. I still feel good about it. And I feel good knowing that for every person out in the world who would put me down, there is one (more than one!) who wishes me well.