It’s hard to resist a “feel good” story, especially with all of the negativity in the news we’re bombarded with everyday. It really is kind gestures from strangers that make all the difference, as you never know what someone may be going through.
One woman noticed a couple at a restaurant struggling to keep their toddler under control and eat their food at the same time.
“So I was sitting at breakfast, drinking coffee and people watching, when this sweet young couple caught my attention.
They were taking turns removing their raging toddler from the table so they could scarf down some pancakes and coffee. They were fierce in gentleness, addressing an impossible situation with patience and grace that I could never dream of achieving.” Mary Katherine Backstrom wrote.
“Clearly, they had come to this restaurant with a rosy notion of a quaint family breakfast. They came for giggles and waffles and memory making.”
While the family was no doubt adorable, Mary admits that it didn’t take long for things to go “sideways” and eventually the parents had had enough and were ready for the check.
“I watched as this awesome team of parents finally raised their hands up in frustration and called it. "CHECK PLEASE. We don't have time for to go boxes." Maybe you've been there. I certainly have.” she wrote.
That’s when Mary decided to do something amazing. She paid the couple’s tab when they weren’t looking, and she even wrote a sweet note on their receipt.
“This morning, I expected to pay a check, smile quietly as they received the receipt, and move on with my day,” she admitted. “I did NOT expect to watch this mama rush outside and break down in the parking lot, crying into her husbands arms.”
Mary said that even though it was a simple $20 tab, it was clear that her gesture meant a lot more to the woman- it was enough to bring her to tears.
“Folks, we never know how other people are hurting, struggling, suffering. This lady was so well put-together. She kept a stoic face throughout the entire ordeal and I would have NEVER guessed she was at her breaking point.” Mary shares her experience and the woman’s reaction to send a message to everyone reading.
“There are millions of people on this earth who are at their breaking point, and most of the time we don't know who they are.
Everyone is fighting their own silent battles, and this is one more reason we should always choose kindness.” she said.
“The only question is: Will you be the foot that pushes them further down or the hand that pulls them up for air?”
What do you think of Mary’s powerful post?
