Strangers

Since arriving at graduate school, I have been very impressed with the kindness of strangers.

• The other day I was walking alone to class. When I reached my building, two guys walked out of the door I was walking toward. Both of them had sideways baseball caps, baggy pants, piercings, and puffy coats with fur linings (not my typical crowd). I was probably a good 20 feet away from the door when they exited. One of the guys saw me after they walked a few feet from the door and walked back to open it for me. I felt like royalty :)
• Last quarter, I discovered an informal volleyball cohort who play weekly. One day I asked if I could join them and was told I was welcome to come whenever I wanted. I have greatly appreciated these strangers who have created an outlet for my stress. I have something to look forward to every week!
• As part of my internship, I am required to ride along with the firefighters. They always feed me no matter which station I'm visiting. One day, a certain firefighter insisted I take home some leftovers. It fed me for three whole days!
• The other day, I decided to give public transportation a go. I tried my best to look like I knew what I was doing and to send the message that no one should mess with me. It seemed like something one should do when surrounded by strangers in an enclosed space. When I was trying to get off the bus, I could not get around someone to get to the door. The bus driver did not see me and closed the door. I yelled for her to wait but she didn't hear me. I silently started to panic as she prepared to go again. Just as I thought it was too late, a gentleman yelled, "Back door!" The bus driver then opened the door and I was free! I was on the verge of being lost in downtown Spokane, but that kind stranger saved me.
• I recently had an issue with the headlight on my car. It was going to cost around $200 to fix. The mechanic helping me suggested an alternative to save me money. To make a long story short, it only cost me $96. That saved me a month's worth of groceries which is a lot to a poor college student.
• The other day I was walking through a crowded grocery store and saw a woman unknowingly drop half of her grocery list. I was in a hurry and did not bother to stop to pick it up for her. I figured she would see it. Just as I passed her, a man walked over, picked it up, and handed it to her. She expressed her gratitude with exclamation. I felt very guilty and have vowed never to walk past another shopper in need without offering my assistance.

These experiences have humbled me and have initiated self reflection on my part. My new goal is to be a stranger who cares enough, not only to see the needs of others, but to take action and make someone else's day better.