By Doug Strickel
Earlier this week, I traveled to Indianapolis to give a speech. My usual routine is disturbed by the early morning travel from Monroe to Dallas for my connecting connection, but it always presents a chance. The chance is to watch and participate.
Despite all the contentious rhetoric these days, I continued to see many acts of kindness that were unrelated to social, religious, or political views. These were simply spontaneous deeds of compassion performed by strangers.
In light of that, I was searching for my chance as I got on my second flight of the day. In search of my aisle seat, I headed toward the back of the aircraft. Like many flights, I was found by opportunity.
My aisle was approached by a mother and her small youngster. She would sit in the middle seat behind us, and he would sit in the middle seat beside me. He was worried about being apart from his mother. I’m not sure if he simply didn’t want to sit between me and the large man at the window, or if he wanted her beside him.
I volunteered to take her center seat, which was a row back. I doubt anyone even took attention. But if I was interested, a flight attendant approached and offered to help me locate an aisle seat. Fortunately, I said no. If I got an upgrade, the gesture would feel a bit flimsy!
The ride was exactly what was anticipated. It was difficult sitting in the center seat for two hours. It served as the ideal reminder of what more I need to do. The mother was Middle Eastern, as was her small kid. They had to be together, but I don’t know where they came from. I noticed him watching the movie with her, his head resting on her shoulder, twenty minutes into the journey.
They may easily pass undetected. It wasn’t that they were attracting attention. A lady and her baby boy are just getting on an airplane.
I am reminded of the first miracle performed by Jesus. At a wedding, Jesus performed the miracle of turning water into wine, but only the servants witnessed it. The shepherds who worked the night shift were informed of Jesus’ birth by the angels. Jesus even asserted that we serve him when we help the less fortunate.
I should slow down and pay closer attention. Perhaps we all do. For someone who is in pain, lonely, or terrified, even a modest gesture of generosity or selflessness can make all the difference. At any particular moment, we have no idea what another person is going through.
During a long delay at the DFW airport, I stood there and observed folks walking by without knowing what they might be going through. That delay, I believe, served as a reminder to me to be aware of the chances that present themselves.
I’m not sure how the mother and young child managed the rest of the day, but at least they were enjoying a movie together on a rocky journey to Indianapolis!
Even though I dislike sitting in the middle, I was perfectly content.
Doug offers both individuals and groups his professional coaching and speaking services. Please contact Doug [email protected] to learn more about PLUS, whether you’re searching for a speaker for your upcoming event or a leadership coach to help you grow people and create a culture inside your team.
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