What people teach 2/5

Short and sweet, be kind.

I was leaving work after a 12-hour shift with some confused patients this past Friday; I will spare you the inappropriate comments and combative demeanor.

I forgot my wallet this particular day and neglected to fill up my gas tank the day prior. (Sorry Mom & Dad). I had 20 miles to empty and 38 miles to get to Auburn. I fished around in my front seat for some change to hopefully get me a gallon of gas, which would equal 17 miles in my car, and I would be more than fine to get home.

I found $1.75 and walked into the gas station. A nice woman in line let me go in front of her because I was just getting some gas. I told the cashier that I would like $1.75 on pump #7. And this woman behind me heard me say that and immediately said, “No, no, you need gas? Trying to get to Auburn?”

Directed at the cashier, she said, “Put $15 on her pump. I’m going to pay for it.”

I was stunned! I said that was so kind, but it was okay, I needed 10 miles, and the $1.75 would cover it until I could get back into town. Thank you, but no thank you, that I was okay.

She insisted.

I said, “I know I’m wearing scrubs, but if you’re comfortable, I would like to give you a hug.” She said, “I’d love a hug! Honey, God loves us all. COVID may be here, but he’s in charge. I wish you all the best.”

She goes out to her car to bring the money inside. The woman behind this first woman then said, “Auburn? War eagle, I graduated from there for my first Bachelor’s. (FIRST? Same girl.) I want to put $25 on pump 7. Please give her back the $15 she can get something else with it.”

So I am standing here utterly amazed at how kind these strangers who couldn’t look more different than me felt compelled to fill my gas tank. Meanwhile, this cashier is probably thinking please someone pay and leave this building.
I hug this woman! Say thank you, and she says, “Of course, baby, we stick together. Auburn family, have a blessed rest of your day, you get home safe now.”

I walk outside the gas station, and I didn’t see the first woman’s car outside anymore. When I get to my car, the first woman pulled up. She must have driven around the building and noticed my license plate because she said, “You’re from New Jersey! What part?”

I told her.

She said, “I’m from Asbury Park, Lakewood area.” We bonded over New Jersey for a second. The chances that I would have connections with these perfect strangers were slim.

I tried to give her back the $15, and she said to keep it.

I love this reminder that people are kind, people care, and most people want to help—people who don’t know you, who had no idea about the day you had. A lot is going on in the world right now. The bad gets highlighted more often than the good.

Here is some good.