I spent a beautiful afternoon in the Cleveland area on Thursday. I had completed my morning talk and had a little time before my next commitment so I was looking for somewhere to "hang" for a little while and enjoy the sunshine. Discovering a fabulous "Main Street style" shopping area, I wandered in and out of shops, sat on some benches, and eventually found myself at a frozen yogurt place called Menchies. After getting myself a nice treat, I bought a $5 gift card and decided to look for someone to give it to.
It's always interesting to try to pick someone to surprise with a gift. I usually try to find someone who is alone since it would feel weird to give something to one person, but not the others with whom they may be traveling. I also try to pick someone who might be surprised, but not put off by my offer.
After a little while of wandering, I saw a woman sitting on a bench by herself. I walked up to her and explained that I had a gift card for Menchies and I asked her if she'd like to have it. Looking at me with some confusion, she was speechless at first, but then said, ". . . Really??". I responded that my only condition was that she do something nice for someone else, and I asked her if she would do that. When she said, "Definitely", I gave her the card and wished her a great day.
The rest of the afternoon, I had such a strong sense of how good (my) life is. It was a beautiful day, the sun was out, I was in a gorgeous place, I had just spread some kindness with a "pay it forward" component, and I was getting ready to spend the evening with some great friends. No worries for me. It doesn't get much better . . .
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