Kindness Doesn’t Cost
Make the other person feel important — and do it sincerely. ~ Dale Carnegie, American writer and developer of courses in self-improvement, public speaking, etc.
Several days ago, my path crossed with that of a stranger, and every time I recall it, I smile.
I was standing in the library, waiting to speak with one of the employees. In my hands was a sack of DVD’s that Domer had helped me gather from home; we meant to donate them to the library if they’d have them.
Standing in line ahead of me was a man — elderly, rather plain-faced, clean but not fancily dressed, and using a cane to walk. Beside him was a younger woman, perhaps his caregiver, daughter, or some other relative, who was busily checking out several movies.
As he turned to leave, the man glanced at me … and stared.
I averted my eyes. The sack in my hand was heavy, I had an immense list of things to do that day, and I didn’t particularly feel like becoming involved in a lengthy conversation with a stranger.
Then the man spoke. ‘Has anybody told you today how pretty you are?’ he asked.
My first instinct was to protest, but I abandoned that for fear he’d argue with me and create a scene.
‘What a nice thing to say!’ I replied instead, a smile spreading across my face. ‘Thank you.’
I don’t imagine this man had ever taken the Dale Carnegie Course, but he had Principle 6 (quoted above) down pat. Mr. Carnegie said ALL people have a craving to be appreciated.
It’s what differentiates us from animals.
Now I’m not talking about flattery in hopes of getting something in return. I’m talking about finding something nice to say to others, like the Random Acts of Kindness so popular today.
Kindness doesn’t cost us a thing, yet it yields a priceless feeling of euphoria when we say or do something nice that someone else can’t repay. And sincerely making others feel important — even for just a few seconds — can have a profound effect on their lives.
Like what this stranger did, which made my day.
Kindness, like a boomerang, always returns. ~Author Unknown
