THE GOLDEN RULE

While walking to work from 33rd street after stepping off the PATH train this morning, there was a woman walking in front of me wearing a trapeze dress and a backpack. With each step, her dress became more and more inched up behind the backpack. Since she was about 100 feet in front of me I didn’t want to yell and make more of a scene so I did my best to speed up after her. By the time we approached 39th street, the majority of her right cheek was out and it was rather clear she wasn’t wearing any underwear. (REALLY lady?!)

As I tried to weave my way through the people separating us, two men (who were possibly homeless), caught my eye. It was pretty evident they had noticed the woman as well and just when I thought they were going to make fun of her, one quickly ran up to her and nicely informed her of her predicament. Immediately I felt ashamed for assuming they were going to poke fun at her but also relieved I wasn’t the one who had to deliver the bad news.

I understand the woman was probably in the midst of feeling horrified, but the nasty expression she dealt out along with her lack of appreciation toward the man who saved her from walking into her office 20 feet later with her bare butt hanging out, was rather appalling. I found myself trying to catch up with him too so I could tell him how nice it was of him but eventually he rounded a corner and was out of sight.

Witnessing random acts of kindness makes me happy. It does make me wonder though; do people continue these nice acts if they go unnoticed? How many times do you hold the door for someone and fail to receive a thank you? “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is one of the first lessons we learn in life. As I grow older I recognize and appreciate its’ importance more and more.

Three things I’m taking away from today: 1) I should continue to work my best to always show my appreciation for the kindness of others. 2) Be kind to others (even when it seems impossible) because the satisfaction that it brings afterward is much more rewarding than the satisfaction of putting someone in their place (should you feel you need to). 3.) Never sport a backpack while wearing a short dress that flows and if I need to, at least wear some freaking underwear.