Only two postal employees stood behind the counter that afternoon, so I knew the wait would be a bit long. A trip to the post office is always a gamble: sometimes it’s a quick in-and-out visit, other times you pay your dues in tendered time.
Not in a real hurry, I began observing those around me. People-watching has always been my fascination; I find human nature intriguing. As I stood there waiting for the line to move forward, it occurred to me that everyone kept quietly to themselves. The only real conversations were those between the two postal workers and the individuals being helped. I had to smile at the realization that despite the long line, calm and patience set the tone.
One woman who had taken up five minutes at the counter turned and apologized to everyone, aware of so many of us waiting. It was a courteous thing to do, and I again observed no show of annoyance in anyone’s demeanor. No grumbles, groans, or toe tapping. Such kindness made me smile.
My attention then jumped to an elderly lady, also at the front counter, who was picking up a package. Her expression was one of surprise when she discovered the size of the box—about half her height in length and width—yet she refused every offer of assistance from the attendant.
“Oh thank you, but I think I can manage. My car is right outside.”
When she turned to leave, hefting that big box, it was evident she would not be able to squeeze through the one open double-door, so I stepped out of line to hold the second door open for her. The dear lady took about three steps forward before she put the package down, apparently reconsidering her need for assistance. Just then, a young man stepped out of line and asked to carry the box for her, giving the elderly lady a reason to sigh a sound of relief.
We all watched the young man lift the box with ease and carry it through the double doors. Someone else further down the line held the main door open for him so he could step outside. We stared out the picture window as he crossed the street to reach the woman’s car where he carefully fit the box into her trunk. It was a sweet scene when she gave him an earnest show of thanks.
I returned to my place in line. The young man also returned to his place in line—no objections from anyone.
Why do I mention these simple acts of service that took place during a few minutes at the local post office? Because they happen every day all around us. The patience. The smiles. The acknowledgements. The opened doors. The helping hands. The gratitude. These humble services are the most precious treasures we give to one another, and they are daily occurrences among us. I fear, though, we have learned to overlook these quiet blessings, instead taking note of things loud, obnoxious, and harsh. Why concentrate on the negative when there is so much positive at work everywhere? Open your eyes and notice it. Then pay the kindness forward.
No matter how bleak or negative the media paints the world, there is still an abundance of good—good days, good people, and good deeds. Choose to see these simple acts of kindness. Be part of what still defines us as humanity.
