Kindness
PJ Martin, Office/News Reporter, Metcalfe Division
It seems that everywhere you go today someone is arguing about something. Turn on the TV there it is a protest, a fight, a crime of some type. It’s everywhere! I am so tired of all this negativity. Doesn’t anyone have sympathy or offer a helping hand anymore? And what has happened to basic ordinary manners? It seems that everyone you meet is either angry or rude these days.
I assume that is why I was so impressed by random actions I witnessed in the doctors waiting room last week. I guess it gave me hope for humanity in this world.
It was a very busy day and the waiting room was full of people sitting patiently awaiting their turn when an elderly lady came in using a walker. She was slowly and methodically making her way to the receptionist desk when suddenly, the lady sitting next to me yelled out “Ma’am Stop!”
I turned around startled to see the woman jump up from her chair and dart over to the elderly lady. It seems the rug had rolled up under the ladies feet and the legs of the walker and the woman was afraid she might fall. The woman kindly helped the lady maneuver around and then straightened the rug. She then helped the elderly lady up to the window. A complete stranger having concern for anthers well-being, imagine that.
Shortly after that, a second elderly lady arrived using a cane. She was a little unsteady on her feet. Even though the receptionist was extremely busy, she came all the way around the corner and through a door to physically help that lady to a seat. (She declined a wheelchair that was offered.)
Then I witnessed a young man give up his seat to an elderly gentleman because it was closest to the entry door to the treatment rooms. He didn’t want the man to have to walk any further than necessary. I think this action struck me the most because so many younger people show no respect for elders.
The smallest acts of kindness go a long way and you never know who might be witnessing them. It might encourage those around you to be kind too.
