You’re More Than A Stranger

I don’t know your name. In fact, I can’t even recall your face–for you are a master of disguise. You don’t wear a cape and you are as humble as they come.

Remember the time you held the door open for me, and I said “Thank you,” with a smile? I meant it. As I wheeled the stroller through with ease, you were my hero. So many times before I had struggled to open the door while simultaneously pushing the stroller through, but not this time. This time you were there. I was only a part of your life for a couple of seconds, but each time I walk up to a door I think of you.

We met again and again.

Remember the time you stopped to chat with me about blackberries while we were both out on a walk? Those words I will never forget. You could have continued walking, but you didn’t. You stopped and chatted with me, a complete stranger, picking blackberries. We laughed and smiled and then you went on your way. I didn’t catch your name, but you were my hero. I hadn’t spoken to a person in hours and it was so lovely to feel seen again.

Remember the time you stopped to let me cross the street? So many cars before you zoomed past without even the thought, but not you. You came to a complete stop and waved me across, with a smile on your face. You didn’t realize the gift you gave me, but you were my hero. I felt safe as I crossed the street with my most valuable possession sleeping sound in the stroller. I mouthed the words “Thank you,” but it didn’t do justice for the way I really felt. You continued on your way, but every time I cross that street I hope to see you again.

Remember the time you helped me pump my own gas for the first time? I was out of state, and had never had the option to do it myself before. You were in a hurry but saw me staring at the pump completely lost. You could have ignored me and gone on your way, but you didn’t. You came over with a smile and walked me through the steps without the slightest bit of embarrassment. You were my hero. You waited with me until the tank was full and then headed off to the soccer tournament. Every time I’m out of state I think about you and thank you over again while I pump my gas with confidence.

Remember the time you looked at me and smiled as you walked out of the store? So many people before looked anywhere but at me, while they hurried on their way. But not you. In a world full of people it is easy to feel unwelcome and alone, but not when I saw you. You were my hero. A simple smile made me feel welcomed. We didn’t say a word to one another, but a shared smile was worth so much more. I hope to see you each time I write down my grocery list.

You’re more than a stranger. To me, you are a hero. Thank you.

Have you had an encounter with a hero? Maybe you can thank them here 🙂 I would love to hear your stories!