I met this gentleman in the Britton Plaza parking lot last night. After letting him cross the street in front of me, I parked and noticed him waving through my window. I cracked it open, eager to hear what he had to say.
His first words were striking: “Hello. My name is John. I’m 39 and I’m gay. I won’t hurt you; I don’t do bad things. You’re safe. I’ve been homeless for a long time, but this week I got keys to an apartment with help from a group. I don’t do drugs, smoke, or drink. I’m just trying to get $9 for some basic groceries at Dollar Tree.”
Moved by his honesty, I handed him $10. The gratitude that lit up his face was incredible; he asked if I would pray for him, and I gladly agreed. After thanking me repeatedly, he began to walk away.
But as I gathered my things, an impulse surged within me. I called out, “John?” He turned, and I asked, “Can I take you grocery shopping?” His voice trembled as he replied, “That would be nice,” and by the time he reached me, tears were streaming down his face.
John shared his fears about going into Publix looking “so disheveled.” I reassured him it was perfectly okay. Together, we strolled through the store, picking up the items he needed—eggs, milk, bread, and hot dogs. He didn’t ask for anything else, showing such restraint. I encouraged him to grab extras, like bread and hot dogs, reminding him he could freeze them.
As we walked, he opened up about his childhood in Key West. He told me how he cared for his mother, who suffered from MS, until her passing when he was young. Ever since, he had been navigating life alone. He mentioned looking for a job but facing barriers due to a criminal record from selling drugs—desperate choices made to escape homelessness.
Every part of me felt that John was a good person in need of support. I urged him to pick a few more items—cereal, face wash, and something to drink besides water. I even added some reusable canvas totes to his cart so he wouldn’t have to manage plastic bags.
After spending 20 minutes and $46, John’s joy was palpable; it felt like I had handed him a lottery win. His gratitude was overwhelming, and he kept expressing how blessed he felt.
As we parted ways—me heading off for my own grocery shopping and him waiting for the bus—I reflected on the encounter. It reminded me that sometimes, even the smallest acts of kindness can create a significant impact. It often takes stepping outside of our comfort zones to help those in need. We all face highs and lows, but the unexpected kindness we share in those moments is what truly keeps the world turning, especially in challenging times.
Credit – original owner ( respect 🫡)
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