Random kindness.

This past weekend was a great time. But a few things happened to me that really had me smiling to the heavens. I figured I'd write about them because it was these random strangers with the loveliest words that really made my whole weekend. 

On Saturday I was on my way to Jackie's salon for an event that my job was partnering up with. While I sat at a red light these men next to me started whistling at me. When I looked over, they were talking to me and looked concerned so I rolled down my window. The passenger told me my tire was low on air and if I didn't fill it soon I would "be in trouble". How nice of them.  I don't know the first thing about cars. All I know is that they help you get around. I know, dumb. But honest. In typical Alex fashion I went into black-out panic and assumed I had a flat, was driving on my rim; sparks flying as I drove. I immediately did a u-turn and drove to Wawa (they have free air, holler).

I pulled up and waited on a woman filling up her tires. I noticed a crotch rocket parked next to her, but no one near it. So I assumed they weren't waiting, but inside getting food. I pulled in and got out to pump air and felt so ridiculous. I have never put air in my tires. On a side note, I hate looking like I don't know what I'm doing. I don't like people knowing I've never done something before and am vulnerable. Character flaw! Here I am in my black dress all done up for work (beauty industry) filling my tires with air feeling like a big moron. But acting as if I'm a mechanic for a second job. When the crotch rocket dude comes out staring me down. "I'm sorry. Were you waiting to use this?" I ask. He shakes his head no. Phew. Keep filling, Alex. My hands are filthy. Gross. I stand up and notice the man on his bike is now right next me. I smile at him. "I don't mean any disrespect by this, but you're a beautiful woman." And there I stood in complete shock. "Thank you, that is sweet of you." I say back with a smile and off he goes. So genuine and just kind. I felt so much better. 

I finally made it to the event (by the way - my tires were fine. Not sure what the men were talking about, but still kind of them to be concerned about me). When I left I went to Michaels to get some paint for our party and Jackie met up with me. While in an isle just aimlessly browsing the Halloween sale, an employee who was putting things away said, "I like your hair. Two colors right? Purple?" I looked at him and nodded yes and thanked him. He asked if it was permanent. I told him it was, but it would eventually fade, and continued looking at stuff. "You know, I think people are so quick to criticize and judge. Never praise. So, I noticed your hair and you needed to know. I hope I made your day and put a smile on your face if at least only for a moment." Mind blown. I couldn't stop smiling and telling this man thank you. 

Two (I guess actually four) kind souls in one day? I couldn't believe it. It was so genuine and just... nice. It really inspired me. I really do attempt to go out of my way to say thank you or compliment someone and I try to do random acts of kindness. But after this weekend I feel like I need to make more of an effort. That man was right; more often than not we are so quick to criticize someone. I don't want to be that person. I want to be the person who is making a conscious effort to put a smile on someone's face.