When was the last time an act of simple courtesy prompted you to speak to a total stranger?
While engrossed in a book on a train ride into NYC, the cell phone of the man sitting directly across from me rang. I sighed, anticipating a scenario that has frequently happened to me: My reading reverie would now be interrupted by a conversation of indeterminate length that I had no interest in overhearing. Instead, this gentleman said quietly - "I'm on the train; I'll call you back when I get to the station." And then he hung up.I was almost too stunned to talk but soon realized this act of simple courtesy must be acknowledged. I said - "Thank you for not prolonging that call; that was courteous and respectful." He smiled at me. I returned to my reading.
I know this is not profound; perhaps it's not even unusual. Still, when he said to me "have a nice day" as he left the train and I said "you do the same" in return, I felt something genuine had occurred. And I smiled to myself reflecting on how his act of simple courtesy had been the catalyst for our interaction.
I love this! I would have reacted the same way you did. This is a keeper!
ReplyDeleteInes; Thanks for the comment. The good news: Everything on the Internet is a "keeper", at least for now anyway.
DeleteIt's so nice to savor something positive like this. It's becoming too easy to focus on the many thoughtless violations of our peace and privacy rather than treasuring the moments when others help preserve our reverie.
ReplyDeleteKim; Thanks for the comment.
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