Deliver Kindness Curbside
“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” Proverbs 21:21
“What year is your Cadillac,” he asked curiously.
“Umm, I’m not really sure. Would you believe it was a gift!” I said politely, albeit preoccupied while attempting to place my sandwich order in the line at Subway.
Undeterred, he continued, “Well, you know next year they’re coming out with flashers.”
Silence.
“You know, flashers, like the ones you don’t have on right now.”
His words hung in the air somewhere between, “sure, I’d like that toasted,” and, “add extra mayo.” In that split second, I realized he wasn’t interested in my car. He was annoyed.
“These three senior citizens had to walk around your car parked there on the curb and step up because you’re blocking the entrance.”
The three senior citizens he was referring to were himself and two ladies, looking graciously uncomfortable.
I frequent the Subway, just a half-mile down from the church where I work, countless times, not once parking by the door. But that day, I dashed in to grab a sandwich so I could get back and finish a project. Phone in one hand and wallet in the other, I was a woman on a mission and, well, the curb just seemed a whole lot quicker than a parking space.
I felt my face flush and my mind race to a myriad of responses ranging from slightly dismissive to, annoyed right back at ya, guy.
And then, I thought of my parents. They drove halfway across the country to spend six days to take in the sights and sounds of Washington D.C., and cram in a flurry of family festivities. They poured their time and talents into a night of music to bless our church. They traversed steps and stores. And when, on a whim, I got us tickets to the Washington Nationals Game, my dad walked around the entire stadium to park the car.
Somehow, all of that squeezed into that split second following his mild but intentional public scolding. And, instead of opting for curt, I was kind. And let me tell you something. Reaching for kindness was the best moment of my day.
I’m chagrined to admit that far too many times, my drive and deadlines steamroll right over kindness. Reaching for kindness takes a whole lotta strength and self-control. It also takes something that is painfully disappearing from our culture: honor. Honor is defined as a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction. Honor acts.
“Oh my goodness,” I responded, gently putting my hand on one of the woman’s shoulders. “I’m so sorry! I was rushing from work and just didn’t even think of how inconsiderate that was. My parents are in their 70’s and I sure wouldn’t want someone to do that to them.”
“Oh, it’s okay,” he said, his face softening. “Just don’t do it again,” he reprimanded, with a twinkle in his eye.
Ouch. But I resolved to let honor win. Kindness was going to win.
“I sure won’t,” I smiled back.
I moved to the cashier and spoke in hushed tones. “Have they finished their order?”
“No,” she whispered back.
“Please add their order to mine.”
On the way out, I patted the man on the back and said quietly, “Lunch is on me today. It’s the least I can do. And I hope it’s what someone would do for my parents.”
For a moment I think he was mortified, and then a wave of appreciation washed over his face. He pulled me aside and gave me a hug. “Oh, thank you, you sure didn’t need to do that. But please know that these three travelers from West Virginia sure are thankful.”
We create a culture of honor when we refuse to argue and resolve to elevate. We don’t have to agree with someone to honor them. Reach for kindness; one small decision at a time. Oh, and don’t park on the curb.
Make Your Life Matter No Matter What
With love,
Angela
