A few days ago, I was standing in the checkout line at the grocery store when I realized I'd forgotten to buy an item on my list. I must have said something out loud, because the young woman behind me in line said, "What's the matter?"
"I forgot a can of tomatoes," I said.
"Do you want to go get them?"
I looked behind me. This was a true supermarket, with aisles that stretched for miles. There was no sign for canned vegetables in sight, and I'd already unloaded half my groceries onto the conveyor belt. "No," I said. "It'd take too long."
"I'll get them for you," she said. "What kind do you want?"
I gratefully accepted her offer, and when she got back I thanked her again and told her she made my day.
She did. Those little courtesies from strangers always do, a bit of love for your neighbor with nothing expected in return. So today I'd like to give thanks for the other countless kindnesses I regularly encounter:
For the people who open doors for me when my hands are full.
For drivers who let me into their lane when I turn on my blinker.
For those who slow down and stop when they see me waiting by a crosswalk.
For those who pull over when the street is too narrow for us both (this happens a lot in Portland).
For the neighbors I don't really know but always greet me with a wave and a smile when they see me.
For the fellow shoppers who ask my opinion in stores and really seem to value what I say.
For the people who let me go ahead of them in line when I only have a few items.
For the strangers who compliment me on my style or attitude--or my dog's style or attitude.
For the people who rush after me when I leave something behind.
For the many things I'll think of adding to this list as soon as I post this blog.