Every once in a while, I'll open up the Optimist and read a nice letter to the editor thanking someone for a good deed done. Just this month I've read a few, be it a couple from England finding a man's wallet and returning it, or a nurse helping a cyclist out at UBC who had fallen off their bike.
Watching the news, you'd think the world was rapidly coming to an end, especially if you watch the political ads. But each one of these thank you letters paints a different picture for me. It's these small, random acts of kindness that restore my faith in humanity.
I think, for a lot of people, having someone help you out when you don't expect it is a bit unnerving. As much as people want to help, sometimes it's difficult to say yes. Maybe it's a guy thing. I don't often ask for directions either
(although I'm getting over this, slowly).
I had an experience recently when someone did something very nice for me.
I had stopped by IKEA on my way home from work to pick up a new clock. While I was there, some framed posters I had my eye on were on sale. Without thinking about it, I grabbed the two I wanted and headed for the till.
The prices had been reduced, and a 30 per cent off sign was also there. I had no idea what I the final price would be. As I scanned it, it was a less than I thought it was going to be. A lot less.
I paid for my purchase and headed for the door. Quickly. All that was running through my head was 'Start the car! Start the car!' But that's where my problem began.
I drive a VW Jetta. The posters are about 3' by 5'. I've managed to fit a lot of stuff into my Jetta before, but this one was a real challenge. I had my car half emptied in the parking lot, doing my best imitation of Tetris to try and fit these things in. I was close - oh, so close - but it wasn't going to work.
And that is when I met Al and Maureen.
While I'm sure most of the people in the parking lot were either ignoring me, or more likely laughing at me, Al and Maureen walked up and said, "Are you going to be able to fit that in?" "I think so," I said optimistically. I was close; I figured if I crouched down and balanced the picture on my head, it would fit.
They asked where I was headed, and I told them I lived in Tsawwassen. Usually, that ends a conversation. That's all the way through the tunnel, Calgary seems closer. As luck would have it, they were going to Point Roberts, and they had a large, empty van. They loaded up my pictures and followed me to my front door. A smile, a wave and they were on their way.
Whether you call it karma, paying it forward or no good deed going unpunished, I owe the universe a favour. So when you least expect it but really need a hand, if I'm nearby, I'll help out.
And you can thank Al and Maureen.
Brad Sherwin, MBA has over 25 years experience in marketing, public relations and business strategy. He is currently the Director of Marketing for a national non-profit organization.
