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Our minds work in very random ways sometimes: things like buying that one particular snack you know your partner has always loved, and has just asked for, slip your mind immediately after leaving the door.
But, the thought of that one person who, multiple decades ago, gave you a heartwarming compliment—something you’d expect your mind to forget—keeps coming back to you on random occasions. Thanks, brain.
Well, people on Reddit were asked to exercise their memories recently for that exact reason. A Reddit user by the nickname u/coggonflorence asked the lovely community of the r/AskReddit subreddit what stranger will they never forget?
Over 15,000 comments later, and with over 53,000 upvotes, the post went viral. Loads of people shared some of the most heartwarming and sometimes pretty hilarious life stories of complete strangers that they still remember today, whether it’s because of who they were or because of something they did.
Bored Panda has compiled a list of some of the best entries from the post for you to read and enjoy. And while you’re at it, why not leave a comment and vote on the stories you liked the most!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
I went on a spontaneous, long ride with my bicycle along a couple of beaches in NSW, Australia one day and had forgotten my wallet or the fruits I'd usually take with me. Couple of hours later, I sat on one of two benches, watching the waves crushing along the shore of the empty beach whilst listening to the rumble inside my stomach, announcing it requires feeding.
A man twice my age (I was 25,f) sat down on the bench next to mine and we shared a smile and a nod. He got comfy and my attention wandered back to the blue horizon over the sea when suddenly I heard
"Hey, you hungry?"
I looked over and he held out this bag filled with plums. I moved to his bench, biggest smile on my face, where we shared his plums and our names. He introduced himself as 'Captain Cook', a name his mate's had given him. He told me how he's been homeless for many years after losing his job and wife, how his daughters are embarrassed about his situation and how he's never met his grandkids before. When he talked about his daughters he had such a shine of pride in his gaze despite the sadness that followed along. I hugged him then and that tipped him over the edge. He cried and cried, not moving his head out the crook of my neck. I've never heard a grown man's heart break like that before. He wailed so loud, not even the seagulls were a match for him.
Within the blink of an eye Captain Cook peeled himself out of my arms, put his sunnies back on, grabbed his bags and turned to leave.
All he said was
"Thank you."
What really got me, like really really got me, was that he couldn't bear showing me his tears. He was embarrassed for his sadness, embarrassed for his vulnerability. He ran-waddled as fast as his legs allowed with all the bags and backpacks swinging on his shoulders.
I never saw Captain Cook again. All that was left of him was the bag of plums, still sitting where he had sat before. He'd left them for me.
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#2
When I was super overweight, I was just starting to workout somewhat regularly. Being morbidly obese at the gym is terrible - I have never felt more eyes on me before in my life.
I was on a treadmill, grinding out some inclined walk/ light jogging, and a super fit girl got on the machine next to me (this was all pre-COVID). She did a short warm-up, and before she got off the treadmill she turned to me and gave me a high five and told me to keep it up.
It was so encouraging to have that support, when I was used to getting stared at by everyone else in the gym. Her small, kind gesture went a long way!
Number 5 3 years ago
People who make fun of/make overweight individuals feel uncomfortable for visiting the gym piss me off so bad. Yes, lets laugh about a person who is trying to be healthier and take better care of themselves. That's super cool. It actually causes some individuals to give up because feeling like a laughing stock isn't worth it.
#3
My son was a week old, and had to go to the doctor. I had severe early onset post partum depression, and I hadn't slept more than an hour at a time since his birth.
I locked my keys, phone, and son in the car.
This incredibly wonderful older couple calmed me down, called CAA, parked beside my car and sat with me until the tow truck came and unlocked the car. The tow driver refused payment.
I will never forget those three people.
#4
When I was a broke-as-sin 18 year old trying to make ends meet, I had a side hustle providing IT support for households (like a geek squad sort of thing).
In practice, I would mostly set up computers for elderly people and the tech illiterate, and teach them how to use them ... Or get them out of technical binds (usually with printers) by googling on their behalf.
This elderly Korean gentleman hired me to set up his new computer for him; I spent an hour setting it up and teaching him how to use it, and two more hours eating a wonderful lunch with the man and his wife. He wouldn't accept my invoice (for just the first hour) -- instead, he paid me 3x my hourly rate for all three hours, and asked me to come back to train him the next week.
Over the course of about a month I came back four times, worked with him, had a lovely meal, and he would tell me about his family and his kids (he was so proud of his daughter, who was about to finish her residency and become a pediatrician).
By the end of the month he was pretty comfortable on the PC, and I thanked him profusely for how kind he was and how ridiculously he'd overpaid me.
He told me I reminded him of his son (who was estranged for some reason -- I didn't press), and that he hoped somewhere out there somebody was being kind to his son, and sharing a home cooked meal with him.
I don't know why, but more than ten years later I can't think of that guy without tearing up. I hope everything turned out well for him.
#5
There are a few. The biggest one was when I was homeless and asked a lady for the time. She told me and asked if I wanted to share her sandwich and the paper. She was the first person to treat me like a person, like I was worth something in years. I never got her name but I will remember her fondly for the rest of my life. I know that she'll never, ever know what a difference she made in my life. Just that one simple thing she did and the humanity she showed me changed my life. I got sober just a few days later and completely turned my life around.
One person, one smile, one kindness that you may never think of again in your life can change someone else's life beyond measure.
#6
The woman who pulled over in the pouring rain and talked me down off the railing of a bridge over a Florida highway when I was 18.
She looked like she had just left a business meeting, but she stayed with me for probably an hour, no umbrella, no raincoat, car still running, listening to me, offering words of encouragement. She truly believed that God had a plan for my life and it wasn’t supposed to end that night. She finally convinced me that suicide was a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
I’m 51 now. I still haven’t figured out what God’s plan is for me, but I’m starting to believe she was right.
#7
My lost wallet was returned in the mail.
The anonymous stranger sent it back at their own expense ($9.75 postage) with all the money, credit cards, drivers license, and other items intact - nothing was missing.
A note enclosed read: "Please do something kind for a stranger whenever you have the opportunity."
#8
When my oldest was a toddler, he went to daycare in the downtown area of our city. We took the bus, then the subway and then walked to daycare (didn’t have a car), then I’d get back on the subway for a few stops to go to work.
One afternoon, it was POURING. I’m by myself, holding a 2yo, his backpack, my work bag and trying to book it 4 city blocks to the subway station. No hands left for an umbrella. A businessman (prob a high priced lawyer, based on the area) walked us all the way to the entrance of the subway station, holding an umbrella over us the whole time.
I encountered a lot of nastiness commuting with a kid that year, but we also met with random kindness from strangers too.
#9
When my wife and I first started dating, we were walking into a Trader Joe’s holding hands. This elderly woman looks at us and says rather loudly “CUTE COUPLE ALERT!!”
My wife and I still laugh about it, it’s been 12 years at least.
#10
I was fiddling with my camera on a train platform in Melbourne, Australia, trying to take an artsy shot of the trains or something. I noticed through my viewfinder a guy about my age (early twenties or so at the time) full-on flipping me off on the train on the opposite platform.
I lowered my camera, laughing, and flipped him off back. He laughed. The train started to pull away, and I waved, and he waved back.
Australia.
#11
Took a train to NYC by myself for the first time. I was 18. Second time to NYC, first time ever on a train. I told the kiosk lady that I’d never been on a train before and asked if she might give me a quick run down of what to do. Another train station employee was nearby and was so interested and amused that I was taking a train for the first time and was alone. He walked me through what to do, down to the smallest detail. No judgement, no meanness. He was just a guy with a silly disposition, delighting in a young person’s naivety breaking up the doldrums of his week. I aspire to be that way when people ask me for help. Thanks, Frank P. You were a peach.
#12
I was in the laundry with my dog and an old man with his dog approached, our pets met and the man said "When Jesus said love your neighbour as you love yourself, only the dogs understood it" After that we had an small chat, then he left and I have never seen him again.
I will never forget that man
#13
I was in my freshman year of college and while alone in my dorm room a light fixture fell on my head giving me a concussion and a major gash. After being taken to the hospital and getting 10 staples in the scalp and simultaneously being diagnosed with a raging UTI I was dumped in the parking lot with glass in my hair and blood covering my face and 15 miles away from the campus at 2 AM.
This was before Uber and I didn't know who I could call to help me. A female cop drove by and offered to take me back to campus, along the way she stopped at a CVS and paid for my prescriptions out of her own pocket. Once back at campus she made sure I got back to my room and let my RA know what had happened and to keep an eye on me.
I truly don't know what I would have done without her. I was freshly 17, new to the area, it was very rural, I didn't have my wallet, and I was bleeding and concussed. I will forever be grateful for her help.
#14
I was by myself in a restaurant bathroom with my screaming newborn baby. As his cries intensified, I started to crumble knowing that we somehow had to walk all the way through the massive restaurant as the bathroom was tucked away in the back. A woman close to my age walked in, I apologized for the crying, and she immediately smiled and responded with “don’t even worry about it”. On her way out, she walked up to me and my baby and asked if this was my first. I responded with a yes. She was not a mom herself, but immediately became empathetic to my situation. After a few minutes of conversation, I told her that I was nervous about walking my crying baby through the busy restaurant. She looked at me and said “let’s get you out of here”. She then opened the door and walked behind me softly rooting me on all the way back to my table.. She had no idea how much I needed her in that moment and I’m forever grateful.
#15
The lady who told me I looked great in blue, and that it was clearly my color.
To this day if I'm deciding between shirts to buy, or wear, I'll go with blue.
That compliment was about fifteen years ago at least.
WhatEvenIsLife 3 years ago (edited)
When I was a teenager, I had an appointment at the eye doctor, and as I was sitting in the waiting room, a little girl said to her mother in a too-loud voice, "Mommy, she's so BEAUTIFUL." I still think about that on a regular basis. It was the most sincere, most over-the-top compliment I've ever gotten in my life. I was a super self-conscious teen with zero self-esteem, and my face turned bright red, but that made me feel like I was on cloud nine for the rest of the day. That kid was too sweet.
#16
A prisoner on a greyhound bus. There were two of them, but I remember one specifically. Apparently, they send prisoners who are transferring from max to minimum security on greyhound buses. They didn't have a guard or anything, and from what she said, they had no motivation at all to run. She had already served 5 years, and only had 6 months left. If she tried to run, she would serve at least 10 more years.
I was 17 and pregnant, and completely broke. I was starving and scared. My life was in shambles, and everyone in my family had abandoned me. She bought me food and was kind to me. She was old enough to be my mother, and I really wished she was. She didn't judge me...she just bought me food and drinks and offered kind words. I really wish I could find her and repay her kindness.
#17
My dad is a truck driver, at the time he was probably about 55-56(it was a long time ago i cant remember) and we were waiting for a train to pass. so there was then this black guy that looked rather homeless and he knocked on the glass of our truck and he said something along the lines of "can i give you something for your grandson?" and pulls out this model freight train. my dad insisted on giving him $20 dollars but the guy refused saying "im just trying to make people happy"
#18
I was driving down south with my girlfriend, we have a blowout so I put on the donut. The donut blows out while we’re exiting the very next exit. So there we are maybe 19 and at least a hundred miles from anyone we know at a gas station in the middle of nowhere. I’m thinking on what to do next, and probably looked like there was something wrong so this older man offered to help. He drives me 20 or so minutes to a junk yard to get a cheap tire. Then he puts the tires on the rim with no more than a pry bar and some soapy water. Had a compressor on his truck so he aired it up and I put it on. And we went on our way.
#19
When I was in elementary school I fell through ice. A man who was walking his dog saw me fall and rushed to the shore. I frantically swam back to the shore, I was only about 5 meters in to the pond so it wasn't a long way, but it took some with soaked winter clothes. When I reached the shore, the man pulled me up by my jacket. It would've been difficult to get up, as there was a steep incline. I didn't thank him, because I was in shock, but I bet he knows I was grateful, and 20 years later I still hope I would had thanked him.
#20
I volunteer at a suicide hotline.
Some guy, Bob, called in and we started talking about his home situation. Nothing absolutely horrendous... But he felt trapped, and stressed, and felt like he didn't have options. When people use language like that, our training says we should ask if they are thinking of suicide.
Many volunteers have trouble with this. But if you mention suicide to someone who is not suicidal, it doesn't make them more suicidal - they just correct you and say "No... I feel more like XYZ".
So I asked Bob, "Bob, you're using a lot of language that people use when they're thinking of suicide. Are you thinking of suicide?"
There was a pause. And then a huge wail. I could hear so much pain in his voice. I listened to him cry for at least 5 minutes.
I've talked to people who had suicidal ideation before "it would be better if I were dead" kind of thinking, but with no plan.
Bob said yes he was considering suicide and we talked it out a bit more.
After the pause and wail, that was the most concerned I've ever been for a human being outside my family. This wasn't just talking, I felt like he had already made up his mind about it which was so scary.
I only know what he told me. I know he was in his car parked somewhere. I know we got a few short laughs out of each other and we made some plans for him. Plans are important because it gives you a sense that if he has something to do, to plan for, he can't commit suicide.
Anyway, he truly is a stranger - I don't know his real name or what he looks like. I just know his story, and I know that he was in immense pain that day. He had a particular kind of accent, and, whenever I meet someone with that same accent, I think of him and hope he's ok.
Agnes Jekyll 3 years ago
oh wow. you do such necessary, important work. I'm so glad that man reached out to you.
#21
I was waiting for my appointment with an optometrist when an old haitian man walked in with a grocery bags. Thai receptionist knew him so he walked up to me and proceeded to ask me riddles. When I finally got the answer to one he reached into his bag and gave me a snickers then left. To this day I'm really curious as to what would motivate a man to become a wholesome riddler.
#22
One day I was trying to park at the store and a lady was crossing in front of me in the lot. I was waiting patiently and she shot me a dirty look and yelled something like "What's your problem asshole?". I proceeded to return the profanities with some "eff you's" and other goodies. I went into the store steaming and proceeded to do my shopping. When I came out I had all but forgotten about the lady but as I drove away, there she was. Something came over me and I pulled up to her and said something like, " I'm sorry for yelling and cursing at you, I don't even know you. Who knows, we could have a lot in common or even be friends". Her face transformed in front of me. It went from twisted up angry, to soft and friendly. She apologized immediately and in the most genuine way, told me to have a good day. This is the day I really learned positivity and love is really powerful and the type of energy I want in my life. I know I sound like a lil softie but that was a big experience for me and I'm grateful for her.
Sharon Ingram 3 years ago
That's awesome of you to stop and apologize. Takes courage and character.
#23
When I was younger, I went grocery shopping with my dad. As we were walking, an old man stopped us and handed both me and my sister a shiny one dollar coin. He told us that he wanted us to have them and to have a Merry Christmas. I never saw him again, but I think of that kind old man from time to time.
#24
Few years ago, I was stopping at a red light and there was an old man selling candy. He approached my car and I was ready to tell him I didn't want anything, but he motioned me to roll my window down, gave me a lollipop and some gum, and said “to the beautiful young lady, never forget you’re a star” and walked away before I could say anything. Needless to say he brightened my day.
Now, whenever I’m sad, I think about that man telling me I’m a star. Never fails to cheer me up.
#25
back when I was like.... maybe 6 or 7 years old me and my big bro (maybe 10 or 11) were out playing and saw this cat that was being thrown around by some other kids. We took that poor cat away form the kids and with the help of two other girls we went around asking people if they wanted the cat (it was a stray in pretty bad condition) we were running out of people to ask until we found a woman who took the cat. The woman said that her cat had recently died and that she was still mourning its death, but she would take the cat so that it too could have a loving family
#26
I was the closing cashier at a grocery store when a very tired looking lady came through. I'll never forget what she got because she got a steak and some seafood and a frozen bag of Arby's fries. I was just trying to make light conversation and said something along the lines of "looks like a good time." And she just in a hollow voice told me that it was the first thing she was going to eat in days because her son had just passed away and this is a meal he would have liked. I talked to the lady and found out more about her son, he was around my age and had died of cancer. She went on her way but would come back to my register when I was working. When I left, I told her it was my last day and she asked me for a hug. Never saw her again but I think of her when I see Arby's fries and hope that she is doing okay.
Janine Hunt-Jackson 3 years ago
Random words can be awesome. Other random words aren't. You two had the first kind.
#27
In college, I was dating a girl. I really loved her, but I realized that we were incompatible and we had to break up.
So I downed a handle of vodka by myself in my dorm. I was drunk as fuck, but still feeling s!@#$%, so I decided to head to the bars and drink some more. I actually don't remember if I made it there or not, but I remember getting off the bus from having come from the bars and was too wasted to continue the relatively short walk to my dorm.
I decided to just lay down where I was at, which was quite literally the gutter next to the railing. Luckily it was an empty gutter, but a gutter nonetheless.
This complete bro dude comes by and sees me laying in the gutter and helps me up. He helps me walk back to my dorm and on the struggle there he asks me what's wrong. I explained the situation. I don't remember much of anything from the conversation, but I do remember him saying something to the effect of "bro, your problems aren't gonna be solved at the bottom of a bottle".
Dave van Es 3 years ago
People who try to drown their problems with alcohol should remember the following: Your problems are better swimmers than you can drink
#28
This girl at my middle school, long story short I tripped and fell my knee was hurting really bad (I found out later I dislocated it) so all I could do was sit there on the ground as tons of other kids including some of my friends just walked right by. This complete stranger saw me got one of the teachers who then called the nurse and I'm just sitting here with a complete stranger talking to me asking if I was ok.
#29
I was doing tech support and my customer was so happy with my service she offered to marry me to her daughter. I politely declined.
#30
I was at a pool bar at a resort in Jamaica. A British lady next to me asked me the most random question, which turned into a nearly three hour conversation. The question: What is a redneck? It was a lot more difficult to explain than I thought it would be. I didnt realize that was an unknown concept to a lot of Brits.
What do you think ?
Uncommon Boston 3 years ago
I will never forget....I was on the commuter train going home from a doctors appointment. Generally in a miserable mood. The sun had just set, it was snowing heavily and the temperature was dropping. After counting every penny I had at least twice, I didn't have much. the conductor asked where I was going, "Wherever I can get for $1.85." Immediately a few dollars appeared over the seat in front of me. The conductor noticed other passengers getting up to offer money. "That's it." He yelled loudly and sternly, "Nobody in this section pays a dime. You all deserve to travel for free." Over ten years ago, I remember the firmness of his voice and the money coming over the top of the seat in front of me. The warmness I felt from those who wanted to help. Total acceptance, even though all I had was $1.85. Not one judgemental look.
Mewton’s Third Paw 3 years ago
A bad day turned into a good one just because people decided to even slightly care. Imagine how much things would be different if it were like that all the time.
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sylvantic 3 years ago
I was on a night flight across the country. I was sick (baaaaaaaad cold) and traveling with my two little sisters and mom, so I sat away from them so they could sit together. I was in the aisle seat and this big middle-aged man was sitting next to me. The whole flight I was wondering how he just seemed to take up all of my seat. I was sitting half in the aisle trying to not touch him. Turns out he put the arm rest up and was stealing my seat. I was mad and it was late and the flight had been delayed so we had to RACE to our connecting flight which was about to take off and this man on one of the trolley things saw us and another woman heading for the gate. He shouted out the gate number and told us to hop on. We would have been stranded in Arizona were it not for him. When we got on our flight all the seats were single seats (no place for a mom and her toddler) and these nice college kids moved around so my mom could sit with my baby sister and I could sit with my other sister.Nice ppl
BonnyDK 3 years ago
My daughter had to sing at a birthday party for her Texas Girls Choir director. She was only 7. It was on the other side of town from our house. These events were short and only took an hour but this time they finished at 11 at night. I was with my 9 year old son. We started back home but as soon as we got on the highway my car sputtered and shook. Parts dropped out on the road as the engine seized up and stopped altogether. I made it to the shoulder. Calmed my kids down and hoped help would come soon. We were right downtown. At 11 at night. On a weekend. I was scared. Pre cell phone. I just thought Lord how long are you going to leave us here? No sooner had that thought crossed my mind then a cop car pulls up in front. Two very nice men get out and offer help. They tell me to take everything of value out of my car and trunk because it probably will not be there in the morning. They drove us home a good 20 miles away. I was so frightened and so grateful.
HappyAxolotl 3 years ago
When I was 14 years old I had a lot of medical issues, Doctors knew nothing and it was really complicated. Well, I was in a park with my family, there was some music so we were listening it, and I was really sad (it was a bad day) siting in my wheelchair and this man (like 5 or 6 years older) was selling lollypops. He went to our side and saw me, talked with me, asked why was I sad. He then gave me one of the lollypops and said it was a gift, I smiled a bit and tried to tell him it was unnecessary but he just got up and leaved before I could say a word. It was one of the most wholsome moments of that year. I will never forget him.
Aroha 3 years ago (edited)
I was 17,000 kilometres (10,500 miles) from home and suffering from strange medical symptoms. Finally it got so bad that I had to go to the emergency room. A woman there realised that I was a foreigner, and felt sorry for me as I was alone. She came to me and handed me 100 NZD. She left before I could tell her I had a travel insurance that would cover everything. But what she also couldn't have known, as nobody in my life knew, was that I was completely broke and didn't have money for food. She saved me ❤️.
The Redhead 3 years ago
5 years ago I was very depressed and attempted suicide. I spent a week in a psych ward. The day I got out and was driving home I had a panic attack (I was on a parkway so it was more like an interstate) there was no where to pull over, and I nearly caused an accident when I slowed to 20 mph. Most people whipped around me shouting or giving me the finger. However a truck driver pulled up behind me turned on his flashers and followed at 20mph until I was able to pull off at the first exit. That truck driver had somewhere to be, had no idea what the issue was, but was kind enough to see that there was a problem and did what he could to help. To this day I'm so thankful for that driver, he unknowingly helped me so much. My depression is under control now and I'm happy and healthy.
Noemie Houtekie-N'Da 3 years ago
I was six. I was driving with my dad from Arizona to Texas, while my mom and brother took a plane. When we pulled up to a hotel it was really late and really cold (I mean after living in Phoenix, 60 is cold to me). I was barely awake when we entered. My dad was talking to the receptionist trying to get a room, when a man sees miserable me and gives me gummy bears. I don't know how he looked like (I was too tired and cold), or if he said anything to me (He did talk to my dad, don't remember what he said though), and I didn't process saying a proper thank you, but I still remember this guy and I deeply regret that I didn't say thank you properly to this day. He was a good man and I wish there were more like him. Pls be a good person. It could make a six year old's year and even save a persons life.
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
I'm sure he understood. I don't expect a thank-you every time I do a kindness because I feel good about helping someone. Gratitude is gravy.
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Alex Luiz 3 years ago (edited)
I was about 13, so this was 20 years ago. Every day I got the train to school. When you get the same train every morning you start to know people by sight. One of the other commuters was a blind man with the most gorgeous golden retriever, and they had the same journey as me every morning. One morning the retriever wasn't there. As I stood up to leave the train, the man grasped my elbow and asked me to guide him to the ticket office. I was completely shocked at the physical contact from a stranger and the utter trust he placed in me, but also kind of honoured. It was a powerful and humbling feeling that still makes my heart swell. In case you were worried, doggo was back the next day- I remember needing to know and looking out specially.
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
Many of these stories renew one's faith in the natural goodness of humanity - and summon those darn onion-chopping ninjas!
DogMom 3 years ago (edited)
On our honeymoon my husband and I took a dinner cruise on the Seine and sat next to a lovely couple from Quebec. We were from one province next door in Ontario. We got to talking and learned they were newlyweds too. This couple was maybe in their seventies and there they were starting on the same new adventure we were. I think about them every now and then. Wherever they are, I hope they are ok and still as in love as my husband and I are.
Beatrice Multhaupt 3 years ago
Early 80's, Houston, Tx. One of those huge downpours where people would die sucked into sewers because the river that was once a street had ripped off the sewer lid. Since my husband and I were from a place where such extreme weather is unknown, the street looked barely flooded because we could still see the edge of the sidewalk. nevertheless, I suggested we turn back. Hubby with a stubborn streak forged ahead when we spotted an elderly man standing on the edge of the sidewalk, furiously waving his arms. Undeterred, Hubby continued forward. After waving some more, the stranger realized that this car was not turning back, so he took ONE step off the sidewalk into the street where he was immediately submerged up to his armpits. He risked his life to warn a couple of ignorant jerks and we were too busy turning the car around and too frightened to thank him.
Mewton’s Third Paw 3 years ago (edited)
Soooooo... y’all just left him submerged in the street and that’s your story of how people are nice to each other?!? LMAOOOO damn. Woo. That is self centered. Did he even survive it?
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Patti Vance 3 years ago
after i graduated high school i wanted to do some traveling but didn't have any $ to do so. i started working at a traveling carnival; get paid to see the states. interesting ppl work there w/interesting backgrounds. but the main mechanic was a hulk of man: well over 6' 3", at least 300 lbs & always in dirty coverall. he spoke to no one & his demeanor didn't invite conversation. i worked in one of the food trailers & occasionally he would come by, say 'coke', leave. i found out his birthday somehow & i picked a couple of wildflowers, walked up to him, said happy bday & left. he started coming by me when i was on break, just standing silently. eventually he shared info: he had been a long haul trucker w/his wife. had a terrible accident that resulted in him being trapped w/his deceased wife for two days before truck was found in ravine. no kids, no family. he was soft spoken & kind to me. he always made sure i was safe after work & when traveling. i hope he eventually found some happine
Sentinel 3 years ago
Wow so nice of u. Im sure ur gesture left a great impression on him. Never judge a book by its cover - so true in this case
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AzKhaleesi 3 years ago
I was born 3.5 months early, and because of that my achilles tendons weren't formed. But we didn't know that yet. One day my dad carried me (because I couldn't walk - 2 ys old) into church and was holding me when this little old lady approached him. She asked what was wrong with my legs, he said they didn't know, and may never know (early 80's) she asked if she could lay hands on me and pray, he agreed. A few weeks later, Shriner's hospital in Utah contacted my parents and told them they could fix my legs, My dad said but we don't have money or insurance, they said don't worry about that. They flew my family out to tour the hospital, did the surgery and then flew my mom back out to pick me up. They paid for all my medicine and therapy back home and because of this I walk today. My dad said he had never seen that lady before, and never again after. So whoever you were, thank you (and Shriners hospital) so much for my second lease on life.
Ivana 3 years ago
My husband told me this story when he was late picking me up and it always stuck with me. He was driving and noticed people getting off of the city bus. One of the passengers pats his pockets and then starts chasing after the bus. The universal signal for the dude left his wallet or phone behind. Well the bus is long gone and my husband can see the dude is giving up so my husband makes a u-turn and pulls up to him and asks if he wants help chasing down the bus. He jumps in and they catch the bus at the next stop then my husband drives the guy back home. All the while the guy is like "Thanks so much man, you saved me." I think about it from time to time and think just how much frustration and panic my husband saved that dude from that only took an extra five minutes out of my husband's day.
Eliška Hůlková 3 years ago (edited)
Here's a small one. I had a summer job as a tour guide on historical site. Elderly couple came in and lady was in a wheelchair. All right, we have an elevator, but I had to go to the office for keys. Then I took them in the elevator, but I couldn't get it to start. The gentleman had to help me twist the key in a correct way. Then the elevator took us to a park, not where we needed to go at all. I tried again and same thing. I had to go back to the office and I was told I was pressing the wrong button all along. At last, we made it to our destination. I was so ashamed of myself and apologetic. But the couple didn't mind at all and they even told me I remind them of their granddaughter. It helped my confidence so much.
Samantha Cole 3 years ago
I will never forget an elderly lady I met at the park when I was 14. I started smoking then. Bad I know. I went and asked her for a cigarette. She gave me a whole pack. I sat and talked to her for hours and petted her over weight wiener dog. I found myself going down to the park just to talk to her. If I was with friends and see her there I would leave them and go to talk to her. She took me to lunch and her house. Our last conversation she told me her kids were putting her in a home and she would have to give up her dog. I never saw her again and think about her often. I think she was the reason I find working with elderly is the best job.
DC 3 years ago
Hm ... maybe it qualifies ... I lived in Berlin for 1.5 years, and went home almost every weekend, because I don't like Berlin, and because I had an old cat then, who I didn't know would live to be 20 (he was 16 then, and loved me in an insane intensity) ... anyway, on the way to the bus station, I changed from a local bus to the subway and there was a little snack shop - with a rude guy behind the counter. A, at least to me, friendly homeless guy lived somewhere around there, I met him a few times on my way. One day, I just arrived when he got thrown out be the rude guy selling fries ... so I bought fries, a large portion, and a midsized glass of beer - not a bottle, a glass to drink at your table, to do a favour to the homeless guy, and to, admittedly, piss off the rude Lord of the Fries. Worked out - the homeless man wasn't hungry that night, had a stay of about half an hour in a heated interior (this was in winter, a few DegC below 0), as he told me when I met him the next time.
Sentinel 3 years ago
Few years ago, when i was 20 yo, i was overseas all alone. Then suddenly i needed to have emergency surgery. I didnt let my family know because they couldnt come anyway. I was totally alone & went to the surgery. They administered local anesthesia. It was so goddamn painful. The nice nurse was such a sweetheart. She held my hands tightly & told me to squeeze her hand as hard as i want. She comforted me all the way. In the end of surgery her hand was bruised :-(. I was under a lot of stress because of pain so I didnt thank her properly. To this day i will eternally be grateful for her kindness.
Cleo Neufeld 1 year ago
When I first started working out (about 4 years ago this week), I was morbidly obese. Then 3 years in, my husband and I found out that I have a rare genetic disease that has no cure or treatment. Myotonic Dystrophy DM2. The only thing I can do is exercise and lift weights. Not long after my disease progressed and I went from walking on my own to using a cane which progressed into having to use a walker. I had been using my gym (Anytime Fitness Steinbach) and started using a fitness program (G-Fit Wellness). I was ashamed to go back to the gym with my walker bc I hated using my walker. No one at the gym made fun of me for having to use the walker! In fact, people were curious about it, asked me questions about my condition (not in a rude way or anything). But the other gym goers, trainers etc encouraged me and really inspired me to lose 100 lbs and counting!
Tammy Ralph 3 years ago
Just came to say has anyone noticed while upvoting a comment it randomly goes to an advert, also the site is gone really slow with adverts.
Karen Lyon 3 years ago
Three of my four siblings live in another part of our state, near where we grew up. I moved several hundred miles away years ago, but since I am a teacher, I pretty much visit during the holidays and during the summer. On one holiday visit, when I wanted to spend time with one brother and sister-in-law, they mentioned that they'd love to, but they were doing their monthly volunteer night at a homeless shelter with their church group. I decided to go along and help out. One man I will never forget: he made sure to tell us how delicious everything was and how festive the dining area looked with our decorations. As he got ready to go into his room for the night, he stopped by the serving area, gave us the most beautiful smile, and with a warm voice, wished us a merry Christmas. It still makes me teary: he, who had so little, and probably wouldn't have much Christmas morning, wishing us the best for our holiday. I pray all the time that things got better for him since then.
Ellkje0805 3 years ago
Such a lovely read. There are so many examples of horrible people out there that it warms my heart to read about all these positive encounters! More of this please :)
Coleonema 3 years ago (edited)
I was on a high bridge once looking over the side, another dude was coming so I continued on my way, we walked past each other ignoring the other with the exception of a nod. And as I was almost off he turned to me and looked down the side of the bridge and said. Guy: "This is a tall bridge" Me: "..Yeah, it is..." Guy: "Do you do bungee jumping?" Me: "..." Guy: "What would you do if i pushed you off of this bridge" Then he walked away without another word. And I swear he wanted to push me off just to see what happened.
Uncommon Boston 3 years ago
I will never forget....I was on the commuter train going home from a doctors appointment. Generally in a miserable mood. The sun had just set, it was snowing heavily and the temperature was dropping. After counting every penny I had at least twice, I didn't have much. the conductor asked where I was going, "Wherever I can get for $1.85." Immediately a few dollars appeared over the seat in front of me. The conductor noticed other passengers getting up to offer money. "That's it." He yelled loudly and sternly, "Nobody in this section pays a dime. You all deserve to travel for free." Over ten years ago, I remember the firmness of his voice and the money coming over the top of the seat in front of me. The warmness I felt from those who wanted to help. Total acceptance, even though all I had was $1.85. Not one judgemental look.
Mewton’s Third Paw 3 years ago
A bad day turned into a good one just because people decided to even slightly care. Imagine how much things would be different if it were like that all the time.
Load More Replies... sylvantic 3 years ago
I was on a night flight across the country. I was sick (baaaaaaaad cold) and traveling with my two little sisters and mom, so I sat away from them so they could sit together. I was in the aisle seat and this big middle-aged man was sitting next to me. The whole flight I was wondering how he just seemed to take up all of my seat. I was sitting half in the aisle trying to not touch him. Turns out he put the arm rest up and was stealing my seat. I was mad and it was late and the flight had been delayed so we had to RACE to our connecting flight which was about to take off and this man on one of the trolley things saw us and another woman heading for the gate. He shouted out the gate number and told us to hop on. We would have been stranded in Arizona were it not for him. When we got on our flight all the seats were single seats (no place for a mom and her toddler) and these nice college kids moved around so my mom could sit with my baby sister and I could sit with my other sister.Nice ppl
BonnyDK 3 years ago
My daughter had to sing at a birthday party for her Texas Girls Choir director. She was only 7. It was on the other side of town from our house. These events were short and only took an hour but this time they finished at 11 at night. I was with my 9 year old son. We started back home but as soon as we got on the highway my car sputtered and shook. Parts dropped out on the road as the engine seized up and stopped altogether. I made it to the shoulder. Calmed my kids down and hoped help would come soon. We were right downtown. At 11 at night. On a weekend. I was scared. Pre cell phone. I just thought Lord how long are you going to leave us here? No sooner had that thought crossed my mind then a cop car pulls up in front. Two very nice men get out and offer help. They tell me to take everything of value out of my car and trunk because it probably will not be there in the morning. They drove us home a good 20 miles away. I was so frightened and so grateful.
HappyAxolotl 3 years ago
When I was 14 years old I had a lot of medical issues, Doctors knew nothing and it was really complicated. Well, I was in a park with my family, there was some music so we were listening it, and I was really sad (it was a bad day) siting in my wheelchair and this man (like 5 or 6 years older) was selling lollypops. He went to our side and saw me, talked with me, asked why was I sad. He then gave me one of the lollypops and said it was a gift, I smiled a bit and tried to tell him it was unnecessary but he just got up and leaved before I could say a word. It was one of the most wholsome moments of that year. I will never forget him.
Aroha 3 years ago (edited)
I was 17,000 kilometres (10,500 miles) from home and suffering from strange medical symptoms. Finally it got so bad that I had to go to the emergency room. A woman there realised that I was a foreigner, and felt sorry for me as I was alone. She came to me and handed me 100 NZD. She left before I could tell her I had a travel insurance that would cover everything. But what she also couldn't have known, as nobody in my life knew, was that I was completely broke and didn't have money for food. She saved me ❤️.
The Redhead 3 years ago
5 years ago I was very depressed and attempted suicide. I spent a week in a psych ward. The day I got out and was driving home I had a panic attack (I was on a parkway so it was more like an interstate) there was no where to pull over, and I nearly caused an accident when I slowed to 20 mph. Most people whipped around me shouting or giving me the finger. However a truck driver pulled up behind me turned on his flashers and followed at 20mph until I was able to pull off at the first exit. That truck driver had somewhere to be, had no idea what the issue was, but was kind enough to see that there was a problem and did what he could to help. To this day I'm so thankful for that driver, he unknowingly helped me so much. My depression is under control now and I'm happy and healthy.
Noemie Houtekie-N'Da 3 years ago
I was six. I was driving with my dad from Arizona to Texas, while my mom and brother took a plane. When we pulled up to a hotel it was really late and really cold (I mean after living in Phoenix, 60 is cold to me). I was barely awake when we entered. My dad was talking to the receptionist trying to get a room, when a man sees miserable me and gives me gummy bears. I don't know how he looked like (I was too tired and cold), or if he said anything to me (He did talk to my dad, don't remember what he said though), and I didn't process saying a proper thank you, but I still remember this guy and I deeply regret that I didn't say thank you properly to this day. He was a good man and I wish there were more like him. Pls be a good person. It could make a six year old's year and even save a persons life.
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
I'm sure he understood. I don't expect a thank-you every time I do a kindness because I feel good about helping someone. Gratitude is gravy.
Load More Replies... Alex Luiz 3 years ago (edited)
I was about 13, so this was 20 years ago. Every day I got the train to school. When you get the same train every morning you start to know people by sight. One of the other commuters was a blind man with the most gorgeous golden retriever, and they had the same journey as me every morning. One morning the retriever wasn't there. As I stood up to leave the train, the man grasped my elbow and asked me to guide him to the ticket office. I was completely shocked at the physical contact from a stranger and the utter trust he placed in me, but also kind of honoured. It was a powerful and humbling feeling that still makes my heart swell. In case you were worried, doggo was back the next day- I remember needing to know and looking out specially.
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
Many of these stories renew one's faith in the natural goodness of humanity - and summon those darn onion-chopping ninjas!
DogMom 3 years ago (edited)
On our honeymoon my husband and I took a dinner cruise on the Seine and sat next to a lovely couple from Quebec. We were from one province next door in Ontario. We got to talking and learned they were newlyweds too. This couple was maybe in their seventies and there they were starting on the same new adventure we were. I think about them every now and then. Wherever they are, I hope they are ok and still as in love as my husband and I are.
Beatrice Multhaupt 3 years ago
Early 80's, Houston, Tx. One of those huge downpours where people would die sucked into sewers because the river that was once a street had ripped off the sewer lid. Since my husband and I were from a place where such extreme weather is unknown, the street looked barely flooded because we could still see the edge of the sidewalk. nevertheless, I suggested we turn back. Hubby with a stubborn streak forged ahead when we spotted an elderly man standing on the edge of the sidewalk, furiously waving his arms. Undeterred, Hubby continued forward. After waving some more, the stranger realized that this car was not turning back, so he took ONE step off the sidewalk into the street where he was immediately submerged up to his armpits. He risked his life to warn a couple of ignorant jerks and we were too busy turning the car around and too frightened to thank him.
Mewton’s Third Paw 3 years ago (edited)
Soooooo... y’all just left him submerged in the street and that’s your story of how people are nice to each other?!? LMAOOOO damn. Woo. That is self centered. Did he even survive it?
Load More Replies... Patti Vance 3 years ago
after i graduated high school i wanted to do some traveling but didn't have any $ to do so. i started working at a traveling carnival; get paid to see the states. interesting ppl work there w/interesting backgrounds. but the main mechanic was a hulk of man: well over 6' 3", at least 300 lbs & always in dirty coverall. he spoke to no one & his demeanor didn't invite conversation. i worked in one of the food trailers & occasionally he would come by, say 'coke', leave. i found out his birthday somehow & i picked a couple of wildflowers, walked up to him, said happy bday & left. he started coming by me when i was on break, just standing silently. eventually he shared info: he had been a long haul trucker w/his wife. had a terrible accident that resulted in him being trapped w/his deceased wife for two days before truck was found in ravine. no kids, no family. he was soft spoken & kind to me. he always made sure i was safe after work & when traveling. i hope he eventually found some happine
Sentinel 3 years ago
Wow so nice of u. Im sure ur gesture left a great impression on him. Never judge a book by its cover - so true in this case
Load More Replies... AzKhaleesi 3 years ago
I was born 3.5 months early, and because of that my achilles tendons weren't formed. But we didn't know that yet. One day my dad carried me (because I couldn't walk - 2 ys old) into church and was holding me when this little old lady approached him. She asked what was wrong with my legs, he said they didn't know, and may never know (early 80's) she asked if she could lay hands on me and pray, he agreed. A few weeks later, Shriner's hospital in Utah contacted my parents and told them they could fix my legs, My dad said but we don't have money or insurance, they said don't worry about that. They flew my family out to tour the hospital, did the surgery and then flew my mom back out to pick me up. They paid for all my medicine and therapy back home and because of this I walk today. My dad said he had never seen that lady before, and never again after. So whoever you were, thank you (and Shriners hospital) so much for my second lease on life.
Ivana 3 years ago
My husband told me this story when he was late picking me up and it always stuck with me. He was driving and noticed people getting off of the city bus. One of the passengers pats his pockets and then starts chasing after the bus. The universal signal for the dude left his wallet or phone behind. Well the bus is long gone and my husband can see the dude is giving up so my husband makes a u-turn and pulls up to him and asks if he wants help chasing down the bus. He jumps in and they catch the bus at the next stop then my husband drives the guy back home. All the while the guy is like "Thanks so much man, you saved me." I think about it from time to time and think just how much frustration and panic my husband saved that dude from that only took an extra five minutes out of my husband's day.
Eliška Hůlková 3 years ago (edited)
Here's a small one. I had a summer job as a tour guide on historical site. Elderly couple came in and lady was in a wheelchair. All right, we have an elevator, but I had to go to the office for keys. Then I took them in the elevator, but I couldn't get it to start. The gentleman had to help me twist the key in a correct way. Then the elevator took us to a park, not where we needed to go at all. I tried again and same thing. I had to go back to the office and I was told I was pressing the wrong button all along. At last, we made it to our destination. I was so ashamed of myself and apologetic. But the couple didn't mind at all and they even told me I remind them of their granddaughter. It helped my confidence so much.
Samantha Cole 3 years ago
I will never forget an elderly lady I met at the park when I was 14. I started smoking then. Bad I know. I went and asked her for a cigarette. She gave me a whole pack. I sat and talked to her for hours and petted her over weight wiener dog. I found myself going down to the park just to talk to her. If I was with friends and see her there I would leave them and go to talk to her. She took me to lunch and her house. Our last conversation she told me her kids were putting her in a home and she would have to give up her dog. I never saw her again and think about her often. I think she was the reason I find working with elderly is the best job.
DC 3 years ago
Hm ... maybe it qualifies ... I lived in Berlin for 1.5 years, and went home almost every weekend, because I don't like Berlin, and because I had an old cat then, who I didn't know would live to be 20 (he was 16 then, and loved me in an insane intensity) ... anyway, on the way to the bus station, I changed from a local bus to the subway and there was a little snack shop - with a rude guy behind the counter. A, at least to me, friendly homeless guy lived somewhere around there, I met him a few times on my way. One day, I just arrived when he got thrown out be the rude guy selling fries ... so I bought fries, a large portion, and a midsized glass of beer - not a bottle, a glass to drink at your table, to do a favour to the homeless guy, and to, admittedly, piss off the rude Lord of the Fries. Worked out - the homeless man wasn't hungry that night, had a stay of about half an hour in a heated interior (this was in winter, a few DegC below 0), as he told me when I met him the next time.
Sentinel 3 years ago
Few years ago, when i was 20 yo, i was overseas all alone. Then suddenly i needed to have emergency surgery. I didnt let my family know because they couldnt come anyway. I was totally alone & went to the surgery. They administered local anesthesia. It was so goddamn painful. The nice nurse was such a sweetheart. She held my hands tightly & told me to squeeze her hand as hard as i want. She comforted me all the way. In the end of surgery her hand was bruised :-(. I was under a lot of stress because of pain so I didnt thank her properly. To this day i will eternally be grateful for her kindness.
Cleo Neufeld 1 year ago
When I first started working out (about 4 years ago this week), I was morbidly obese. Then 3 years in, my husband and I found out that I have a rare genetic disease that has no cure or treatment. Myotonic Dystrophy DM2. The only thing I can do is exercise and lift weights. Not long after my disease progressed and I went from walking on my own to using a cane which progressed into having to use a walker. I had been using my gym (Anytime Fitness Steinbach) and started using a fitness program (G-Fit Wellness). I was ashamed to go back to the gym with my walker bc I hated using my walker. No one at the gym made fun of me for having to use the walker! In fact, people were curious about it, asked me questions about my condition (not in a rude way or anything). But the other gym goers, trainers etc encouraged me and really inspired me to lose 100 lbs and counting!
Tammy Ralph 3 years ago
Just came to say has anyone noticed while upvoting a comment it randomly goes to an advert, also the site is gone really slow with adverts.
Karen Lyon 3 years ago
Three of my four siblings live in another part of our state, near where we grew up. I moved several hundred miles away years ago, but since I am a teacher, I pretty much visit during the holidays and during the summer. On one holiday visit, when I wanted to spend time with one brother and sister-in-law, they mentioned that they'd love to, but they were doing their monthly volunteer night at a homeless shelter with their church group. I decided to go along and help out. One man I will never forget: he made sure to tell us how delicious everything was and how festive the dining area looked with our decorations. As he got ready to go into his room for the night, he stopped by the serving area, gave us the most beautiful smile, and with a warm voice, wished us a merry Christmas. It still makes me teary: he, who had so little, and probably wouldn't have much Christmas morning, wishing us the best for our holiday. I pray all the time that things got better for him since then.
Ellkje0805 3 years ago
Such a lovely read. There are so many examples of horrible people out there that it warms my heart to read about all these positive encounters! More of this please :)
Coleonema 3 years ago (edited)
I was on a high bridge once looking over the side, another dude was coming so I continued on my way, we walked past each other ignoring the other with the exception of a nod. And as I was almost off he turned to me and looked down the side of the bridge and said. Guy: "This is a tall bridge" Me: "..Yeah, it is..." Guy: "Do you do bungee jumping?" Me: "..." Guy: "What would you do if i pushed you off of this bridge" Then he walked away without another word. And I swear he wanted to push me off just to see what happened.
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