The Kindness of Strangers

Let Me Count the Ways

Blanche DuBois, a character in the Tennessee Williams play, A Streetcar Named Desire, uttered the famous line, “I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.”

     Kindness, one of the lovely attributes of the human being, is so appreciated when offered and sorely missed when not.

     Merriam-Webster defines the word as “the quality or state of being gentle and considerate.” I would add such qualities as “helpful” and “courteous.”

     The world-famous dictionary states that the first known use of the word “kindness” occurred in the 14th century. I’m skeptical. Surely Neanderthal cannibals must have appreciated the gesture of fellow stone-agers willing to share the warmth of a campfire and a rib or two from some poor soul who fell by the wayside.

     I’m happy to report I’ve found kindness wherever in the world I’ve traveled. No matter how poor or rich the country, the milk of human kindness flowed generously. Once in a while, a ne’er-do-well taxi driver ripped me off by taking the long way around. But they did the deed with a smile on their lips and lighthearted banter. When that happens, I’m reminded of a saying by Benjamin Franklin: “He’ll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.” Apparently there are cabbies in this world who are fearless.

     In my view, politeness usually accompanies kindness. No society could be more polite than that of Japan. How can anyone quarrel with another who bows to you in a show of respect? When you return the bow, the the honor is shared. We are both humble. It’s a great way to begin a conversation.

     Holding a door open for the person behind you is commonplace. When that happens, as it has for most all of us, we have a momentary bonding with our benefactor. Although the event is brief, the good feeling that follows lasts for a while. It’s great to pass on the favor to others, knowing you’ve created a spark of appreciation in a stranger’s heart.

     The person who helps you pick up shards of a dropped glass, the local who sets you in the right direction when you’re lost, and a fan at the ballgame who tilts his popcorn bag in your direction—these simple acts of kindness are evidence of people’s desire to love and be loved.

     The joy of life comes in bits and pieces.