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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.
Jude 4 years ago
What an incredibly sad story. I don't know if there was more baggage with the man than he would share but no matter, his daughters need to acknowledge him and not be ashamed of him. And for him to be able to know his grandchildren. But still, so sad. ---- I only mentioned the bit about baggage as it doesn't say how or why he lost his wife. My husband, an alcoholic, left me and my sons but made it out to be our fault. Strangely, he'd open up to others and it always sounded like he was entirely innocent and I was the cold-hearted uncaring b!tch although I stayed and emotionally supported him for almost 20 years.
Agnes Jekyll 4 years ago
Oh that lovely man, just in need of love and comfort, and cannot fully accept it. Oh, how I hope he has found his way.
PeachthePan 4 years ago
aaaaaaa why can't i upvote more! this one really really got me! it should be higher!
thisisanalt 4 years ago
PLOT TWIST: he was a figment of your imagination, but supposedly, the bag of plums was there, from an alternate universe where he was real
jaysko 4 years ago
THANK YOU. Everyone is sad, admittedly I initially was too, but there's a huge chunk missing. I have empathy, but also have a dead beat dad. There's a reason...
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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 4 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.
JuJu 4 years ago
Nice and supportive people are rare in the gym. But if your find one, it changes everything. A random guy decided to be my gym buddy out of the blue after helping me with some exercises. He said that if I knew someone was waiting for me, I would go and not stay on the sofa :)
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Katherine Heasley 4 years ago
I started seriously working out when I was in my late 30s and very overweight. I found that gym people are actually some of the kindest, most helpful people in the world. I got nothing but encouragement. Ten years and a few relapses later, I still love 'em.
Javiera Gotelli 4 years ago
I would applaud someone who's severely overwheight and does something to change that! It can't be easy to overcome fears/insecurities/etc and walk into the gym knowing they'll be stared at.
Crazy Meerkat Lady 4 years ago
That is awesome and I think most people who work out has respect for those starting out, especially those who have a long way to go, because they know the amount of hard work and commitment it takes
Pille P 4 years ago
I don't go to gym. But isn't it normal for fat people to go there to get into better shape. I think I would try to encourage and motivate them with supportive words, gestures etc instead of trying to make them miserable there. I think it is hard enough to start excercizing like that if you are overweight or even if you are simply a couch potato.
#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.
Kiki 4 years ago
Some people really make a difference is one's life. My goal is to be that person as many time as possible and I hope to meet some (already did, I'm thankful) in my life!
Noemie Houtekie-N'Da 4 years ago
I totally agree. If there were people like them in the world, the world would be such a better place.
Load More Replies... Jayne Sargent 4 years ago
That's so nice. They might have called CPS but chose instead to help you. The world needs more people like this. 💖💖💖
Cary Huether 2 years ago
I did that, twice and with the car running so baby didn't freeze or melt whichever but man, was I glad to see the two different former juvenile delinquents that broke into my car with a coat hanger.
Lindsey Judd-Bruder 4 years ago
I had PPD too. It's so horrible. I'm so glad this woman had these three angels come into her life, just when she needed them most.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
The help of people older than you can be so valuable. They tend to know how to not lose their cool.
#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.
Wandaluzt 4 years ago
I'm sure he'd appreciate you telling him that on Reddit where he has a chance of seeing it. He didn't post it here.
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#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.
Freya the Wanderer 4 years ago
You never know when a simple act of kindness will make someone's day. You never know when it could change the course of history.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
It’s really important that we treat homeless people the same as anyone else. Share food or a smile, or just whatever. They’re just normal people with no houses.
Crazy Meerkat Lady 4 years ago
I'm a 30 year old female. I drove past a homeless man today, mid 40s if I had to guess. I didn't have any money or food with me but I so badly wanted to pick him up and take him to a barber to get cleaned up and to get him a proper meal. But because of the times we live in, and the country that I live in, I didn't do it, out of fear for my personal safety. It's such a shame how many of these opportunities arise but are not carried out for precisely this reason. Giving someone money is easy, but making a difference by treating someone nicely or doing something for them means so much more
Amanda Hunter 4 years ago
Several times someone's smile has changed my day from terrible to ok again.
Tully Cloud 4 years ago
WOW!!! AND NOW YOU HAVE A PHONE TO!!! Ok, you were NOT kidding when you said she changed you're life!! COOOL
#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.
Noemie Houtekie-N'Da 4 years ago
Whenever I see thing like this I cry. There is something for you ahead of the road, and don't ever ever forget that.
I Like Jelly 4 years ago
Piek Puk I cant reply to you because of the downvotes I guess, (not sure why you're getting downvotes) but as an atheist, I agree
Gëë Bëë 4 years ago
Can i just say to the people making anti-faith comments on here. If someone wants to believe and believing enriches their life and makes it better, who are you to trash them for it? NOT believing makes your life better so leave the people who believe alone!!! Atheist here btw.
Yvette Desmarais 4 years ago
You are hear so we can learn about compassion and hope. Thank you.
Jaybird3939 4 years ago
Sometimes, just one thing can turn your whole view of your life around. I'm so glad she was there for you.
Terri Willburn 4 years ago
You may never know, but somewhere you have of you will make a difference! God bless you.
Lynn Morello 4 years ago
No matter what your own belief is in God, others believe in him so deeply. it doesn't hurt you to turn around and call on their belief in God and Gods plans for them, no matter what you believe.
CrunChewy McSandybutt 4 years ago
I've been on that ledge more than once. Plan or no plan, there are better days ahead.
#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."
Lynn Morello 4 years ago
I found a Wallet dropped on the pavement, and took it to the address that was on the Drivers license just on the inside flap. I was greeted at the door by an older man who thanked me for returning the wallet, only to have the owner of the wallet start ranting and raving that I had stolen the money that he had., That was the first time I saw a Grown Man get a thump across the ears and be made to apologise, by an elderly man half his size. I did thank his father before I left.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
I found a cell phone once and was able to get ahold of the owner and send it back to her. It cost like $10. She mailed me a check for $15 but I never cashed it. It’s okay. People make mistakes, that’s why other people are around to help. Otherwise what’s the point of there even being so many people?
Freya the Wanderer 4 years ago
I lost my bus pass about a month ago but a stranger retrieved it so I was able to get it back. I hope someone does that person a kindness.
#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.
WholesomeArmyweeb 4 years ago
That’s amazing. I’m sry abt the fucktards that we’re mean, but I’m glad that you were able to see some kindness
#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.
Tully Cloud 4 years ago
AWWW!!! God bless her! WHAT A KIND THING!!! Thats so cute and funny lolololololol!!!
A Head 4 years ago
The first summer I met my wife, we were in the grocery store getting some stuff to go to the beach, and just goofing around and laughing. An older lady noticed us and said "you two are having such fun - that's really important! Keep it up, and you'l always be together!" That was 30 years ago, and we still have fun together.
Jennifer Norton 4 years ago
I love that!!! As I get older I find that my filter is leaving me and I am feeling more bold to randomly compliment people like this. I hope I can be like this lady too!!!
#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.
Leslie Burleson 4 years ago
This sounds like my husband and I saying goodbye on our way to work
#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.
Johnny 4 years ago
I had a similar experience in Japan -- I was at a ticket terminal and bought a ticket for my destination, but wasn't sure how to get to the train (it was a large station, Shinjuku, one of the largest in the world). I was talking to my travel partner and said we should find a ticket agent to get directions. A man staying nearby asked if we need help and we said, just need to be pointed in the right direction. He said "it's confusing, I'll take you", and he used his own transit pass to enter the gates and walked us through the big station right to the tunnel to get to our train. We thanked him profusely and he just say "No problem, I'm just on my way home".
Marina 4 years ago
It's really ugly and disadvantageous to be mean or arrogant when someone asks for help or asks a question, no matter how obvious or stupid it is to you, as long as they do so with respect and genuine interest. always answer politely because that's how we encourage people to learn and better themselves. Otherwise we're just teaching them to hide their shortcomings, avoid things they don't know or asking for help and we need more curious and interested people in the world! ♥️
Kersten Hackney 4 years ago
this one is so important. there's so much stuff that some people just dont know for many reasons. i've never ridden a train, or ANY other form of public transit and would have zero idea what to do. and some people are mocking and judgemental. it's a new experience for some, give them some leeway and kindness.
thisisanalt 4 years ago
im sorry but i dont get it she took a train in first time she went, the second time she says its her first? what?
#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
Candy Rae 4 years ago
Yeah because dogs never kill other dogs right? Pets arent human but theyre not angels either.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
I think it was just a casual remark. Jesus isn’t real. It was just a point the guy was making about how dogs are fast friends much of the time.
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#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.
JuJu 4 years ago
Nice of the cop, but WHAT THE HECK IS WRONG WITH YOUR HOSPITALS???? A concussed minor...just put outside... I can't even
Marcellus the Third 4 years ago
It's obviously the US, from all the disfunctionality, so I trust you sued the campus management for the fixture falling and retired at 22y old?
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Blakkur Sverrir 4 years ago (edited)
In Germany the Cop would take you right back into the hospital and propably ask them some serious questions about throwing out a minor with concussion and without someone to pick him/her up
Linda van der Pal 4 years ago
Now that's the kind of stories we want to hear about cops. (By which I mean I wish all cops were that nice to everyone.)
Freya the Wanderer 4 years ago
We need stories like this to remind us that cops are like the rest of us - some are good skates, and some are jerks. You can't tar all cops with the same brush.
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Jill Tremblay 4 years ago
so the hospital never cleaned the blood off your face or helped get the remaining glass out of your hair. And at 2 am this hospital "dumped" you out on their parking lot? What hospital was this ??
Claire the Bear 4 years ago
The person may not have had insurance, so hospitals aren't usually as helpful as they should. Normally without insurance they'll do a "quick fix" (so the staples) then send you on your way. It's awful but that's the US healthcare system :/
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Jude 4 years ago
This needs to be upvoted more! Refreshing to read this as police often get a bad rap and in some cases, well deserved. So reading something this positive helps us to know that many police will go beyond to help others.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Actually that doesn’t help. It gives people the feeling you have. As if it’s safe or as if the bad rap isn’t true / reasonable.
Load More Replies... Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
No matter who you are, you can’t just ignore someone in that state. It isn’t safe.
Grumble O'Pug 4 years ago
That could be where I live. You can see the campus from the hospital, but it's a hike back.
#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.
gracefullikeagazelle 4 years ago
Mewton's Third Paw You are Bored Panda's Resident Asshole.
Load More Replies... #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 4 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.
Kanishka Patel 4 years ago
Im pretty sure you are pretty, because children dont lie
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Carrie Podhirny 4 years ago
I was once in a store trying on cocktail dresses for a company gathering. I was new and self conscious because I am a big big girl. It's not always easy to find fashionable AND flattering evening wear in plus sizes. I walked out to the mirror in a silver dress that was tulle on the bottom with a sequined sweetheart top. A little girl's eyes got wide as I walked out and she said "you look like a princess" Sold. Dress is still in my closet 9 years later. It's dated now but I did feel like princess in it lol.
Draco Malfoy 4 years ago
It's amazing how much affect a simple compliment can have on someone. :)
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
It’s sad to think some people are complimented so infrequently that they have to hang on to the few they do get. Everyone should compliment and praise their loved ones all the time
#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.
David Lacy 4 years ago
It rare that is see a kind person here, but alas a have found one. Keep spreading prayers and cheer!
Load More Replies... Pille P 4 years ago
I can't understand people who kick out / abandon their kids at 18, or kick out their kids when pregnant or over finding out they are LGBT. I mean this is the moment where your kid needs you the most. What kind of monster do you have to be in order to abandon them? I graduated high school at 17 due to starting school at 6 (was normal back then) and felt still like a total kid. Without my parents there would have been no way I could've managed. Now as a fresh parent I see how expensive it is to raise a baby, how much of your time you have to invest in the best way possible which means they need you so much it is mentally really tough to give them to someone else for babysitting. Plus daycare and babysitting is soooooo expensive! To do that as a grown up with paid parental leave is tough, how on earth a teen with 0 money is supposed to do it and support themselves?
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
I can understand it if the teen insists on getting pregnant and won’t have an abortion or adoption. Just because you’re a parent it doesn’t mean you agreed to take care of extra children, and the parents of teen moms almost always suffer because of the teen’s refusal to just be reasonable and not get pregnant. You said it yourself, it’s so expensive, and they just auto-shoulder the burden on to their parents. If I had a teen daughter, I couldn’t do it. She can stay, but the baby can’t. Her parents didn’t sign up for that and it’s so hateful and entitled to just force them to do it because “it’s a baaayyybeeee.!”
Load More Replies... Amanda Hunter 4 years ago
Why is it that it's often people who have nothing that help the most?
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
People who are going through really hard times usually help each other. Just like people who are super well off often help each other too. Your class / station in life really determines a lot more than the other factors. I’m surprised prisons were sending people just free like that on Greyhound. I wonder if that’s still a thing. The only thing I know about greyhound and prison is that when you get out of federal prison, they give you a bus pass to get home on greyhound since most of the time they fly you out of state to do the time.
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
All right, let’s put the LSD down for a little bit.
Load More Replies... #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"
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
Yeah my eyes acting like they ran a marathon in Arizona in the summer
Load More Replies... scorpesh 4 years ago (edited)
Santa you gotta hand it to him,he's just trying to make people happy and you take letters, pfft old-school.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Santa takes letters so he can send you presents later based on the letters. Santa and the guy from the story are both good. For all we know, that man in the story could be Santa or one of his Helpers. I don’t think Santa takes much time off.
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Mili Del Rio 4 years ago
A good hearted person is kind regardless of their economic status. I'm poor but make it a point not to treat others poorly...even the mean ones.
Samtheperson 4 years ago
Homeless people have such good morals compared to privileged people. I wish we could all know what a hard life they go through so privileged people can be more grateful and not take things for granted.
#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.
M O'Connell 4 years ago
If you're ever in a really tough spot, salvage yards will sell you the donut spare out of a junk car for less than $5 because you're doing them a favor not having to pay the recycling fee for the tire (which nobody ever wants to buy).
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Good thing you didn’t put something stupid and negative and shitty on a person who did a good thing for a stranger.
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Beth Arriaga 4 years ago
That's the South I like to remember- the kind hearted people (and not the racism and ultra religious evangelicals)
Terri Rimmer 4 years ago
Back in 91 I broke down on the hwy at night but no one was stopping to help. Finally this elderly couple stopped in a hot rod car and I reluctantly got in, knowing I was taking a risk. They drove me to the nearest station and gave me a bunch of quarters to call my boyfriend who was 3 hours away.
Ralph Burton 4 years ago (edited)
When I started my 1st job, aged 15, we had no machines, every tyre was removed and fitted with tyre levers( 12" pry bars double ended ) UK
#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.
Freya the Wanderer 4 years ago
When I was a tween I was walking on a frozen pond when I heard the ice begin to crack. I got on my belly and scooted to shore spread-eagle. I may have looked ridiculous, but I was safe.
WholesomeArmyweeb 4 years ago
Aw that’s amazing. A lot of ppl would either 1) started recording or 2) kept walking
#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 4 years ago
oh wow. you do such necessary, important work. I'm so glad that man reached out to you.
Draco Malfoy 4 years ago
These people are angels. Taking time out of their own lives to safe others without payment. I have talked to a few and they are genuinely so positive.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Gosh that’s sad as fûck. The people on those hotlines probably need their own counseling after seeing so much human suffering.
WholesomeArmyweeb 4 years ago
I’m lowkey crying. This is so sad. I’m sorry for bob. Thank you person. You are truly kind
Amanda Hunter 4 years ago
I've done a suicide hotline too, I'm proud to say I saved four people's lives. Go ahead, volunteer, you could save someone too.
Lynn Morello 4 years ago
For the most part, reaching out to someone - anyone who is willing to listen and talk with you and not lecture you, helps tremendously, The fact that you made plans with him, tells me he just wasn't quite ready to go, other wise he would not have agreed to anything. I get a good feeling about this. Always the same thoughts come up, When you shine a little light in the dark for someone who is lost, they will continue looking for light in the dark because they now know it exists. And in searching for light, will find it. Blessings to you, some people are just meant to be in the right place at the right time.
#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.
Xan Maranya 4 years ago
You could just be a wholesome helper, one way or another.
Load More Replies... istonia luttrell 4 years ago
a wholesome riddler that just got me and I almost burst out laughing.
WildHoneyPie 4 years ago
Ah gwan, burst out laughing. It's very refreshing.
Load More Replies... Tully Cloud 4 years ago
Hold on. *WHILE I GO TO THE STORE AND BUY CANDIES AND GET MY COMPUTER* |*SEARCHES UP RIDDLES*|
haha laser go brrr 4 years ago
There isn't much to explain, really. OP is waiting for a doctors appointment, a man walks in, goes up to OP and asks him riddles, when OP finally answers one correctly he is given a chocolate
Load More Replies... Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Probably just got tired of the rat race and decided to do what makes him happy. He probably likes to give gifts and tell jokes / riddles. Life could be a lot worse than that.
#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 4 years ago
That's awesome of you to stop and apologize. Takes courage and character.
Agnes Jekyll 4 years ago
apologizing when one is in the wrong is very difficult. They call it being a big person for a reason, but it does make you bigger.
Load More Replies... Freya the Wanderer 4 years ago
We all make snap judgments from time to time. Being able to forgive is an indication of good character.
Kindness is Everything 4 years ago
Aw, this made my heart so full. Last December I had a similar experience. I had said something snippy and nasty to a stranger on the Internet in a YouTube comments section. I felt horrible and went back and apologized. They replied and said it was okay and to have happy holidays. It made me feel so much better. I still definitely regret being unkind, but I'm glad I apologised. Both of these stories prove that if you have potentially hurt someone, letting them know you're sorry is the best thing for both them and you. Especially if you don't know the person well enough to know what battles they're already fighting. Swallow your pride and remember that we're all human, and have feelings and make mistakes and deserve gentleness. <3
WholesomeArmyweeb 4 years ago
That’s sweet of you. Reminds me of a friend. I hope they accepted your apology
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Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
That’s why you shouldn’t let people take you outside of your personality / your element. Don’t mimic people. When people cuss me out in traffic or whatever usually I just act like my own personality. I wave, smile, shrug, make sexy faces or kisses at them, or just mock / repeat their own words back to them. People are funny when they’re mad.
Mili Del Rio 4 years ago
Maybe Hana is in a bad place right now? I won't know what motivate her words only my own. Hana, your words sounded unkind whether that was your intent or not.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Hana, sometimes we all feel unstable or off. Have you talked to your family or friends at all about that? You should never ever feel ashamed or like it’s wrong to take your medication. You’ll still be you. Just a better version of yourself.
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#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.
Books 4 years ago
Same for me except instead of a coin, he bought me a Christmas themed Coca Cola
gellert grindlewald 3 years ago
l got one from a guy who lived on the BEST sledding hill in town (that year*). I still got it somewhere. *the best hill changes almost every year.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
Sometimes it’s cool to just buy a kid something they have their eye on. Parents are broke a lot and kids are innocent most of the time and just want a small toy. Kids remember stuff like that forever even when you forget.
#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.
crimson (mudwing rainwing) 4 years ago
old folksare wise and if they arent correct about something its prolly very funny
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago (edited)
One time I was waiting for the metro on the platform and some old, possibly homeless guy sat near me and started sketching / drawing my face. A crowd started to form and people watched my face and the art as he completed the picture. I was 23 and on my way to community college. The man gave me the picture and some compliments and I was shy but grateful. A few weeks later my abusive boyfriend ripped it in two after a minor fight about where I should hang the sketch. I think about it all the time.
WholesomeArmyweeb 4 years ago
.0. IM MAD NOW. OH MY GOD IM SORRY but that’s hella cute. I hope u taped it 🥺
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Sarah Grape 4 years ago
my family met a guy on the streets of california who was making balloon things. he stopped us and made us some balloon animals and swords even though my dad said he didnt have any cash. it made quite an impression on me that he would do that for kids.
#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
Noemie Houtekie-N'Da 4 years ago
Don't be sad, now it has a loving owner.
Load More Replies... Hugo A-niro 4 years ago
It a get a me to hear people abusing animals I wish some one would give them a taste of their own medicine
#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 4 years ago
Random words can be awesome. Other random words aren't. You two had the first kind.
Aroha 4 years ago (edited)
Cashiers can do so much for people. I had this job for 7 years during my studies. There was a regular customer who came in every day. She was 75 and a full time care taker of her 95yo mom who had Alzheimers, was violent and rude. We cashiers were her only contact outside her home. When the mom finally passed away, she came by to thank us for keeping her sane all those years ❤️.
Jaybird3939 4 years ago
Most people clam up when they hear things like that. You obviously had the strength of character to take that next step. Good for you.
TheRandomBorger 4 years ago
Wtf- well what would you do if YOUR son died? Bet you wouldn't be shaming people who've lost someone on Bored Panda. Learn to turn off Caps Lock
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#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 4 years ago
People who try to drown their problems with alcohol should remember the following: Your problems are better swimmers than you can drink
Kiss Army 4 years ago
"I was drunk as f**k, but still feeling s!@#$%" - Why did they spell out the f-word but censor the s-word?
Kristin Ingersoll 4 years ago
"You can't drown your sorrows. On you'll be the joke. 'Cause the only thing that you will drown is yourself. 'Cause you see, my dear, sorrow, it floats." -Voice of the Beehive
Debbie Burton 4 years ago
Remember alcohol intensifies emotions... happy you will feel happier, sad you will feel much sadder. Dont do it
Lorelai Purvis 4 years ago
this reminds me of the song called "Jesus in LA" look it up and you'll know why
#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.
Linda Haney 4 years ago
Pro tip: if your friends walked by you when you were hurt, they aren't your friends.
#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.
Joanne Hudson 4 years ago
When much younger men do something nice for me I usually ask if they are married and say I Love You in the same breath.
#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.
Hello 4 years ago
Usually, in most examples, a USA, country person. Not always very highly educated (I'm sorry if that sounds rude) and usually an example of a sterotypical far right trucker dude. Usually used as an insult...
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Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
This is true. Rednecks have different vibes world wide but the concept is pretty much the same.
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Gyro Pilot 4 years ago
In the Caribbean they have what they refer to as red legs: poor and oppressed white minorities that are leftovers from history. Same concept as red necks in America: demeaning term for people one is prejudiced against.
Firefoxy3121 4 years ago
In Australia they're called hillbilly's, and usually own big noisy utes, have a bunch of guns, and swear a lot. They also usually smoke and drink a lot
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
We have hillbillies in USA too but some people draw a distinction. A hillbilly can be just a country / rural / gun owning / broken English speaking kind of person. Redneck kind of implies a social component where the redneck has antiquated beliefs / backwards politics.
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jenjie.newt 4 years ago
It's a person who works in the sun, and therefore has a sunburnt neck. It's not a new term; in South Africa they say rooinek. It basically refers to lower class, working people.
Mewton’s Third Paw 4 years ago
I love that kind of conversation or explaining American things to non Americans. I like it when the Brits try to explain Chavs. Like I’ve seen enough British TV to get it but still, I don’t think I’ve ever actually met a chav.
Jamie Purtteman 4 years ago
Rednecks were originally nicknamed for their outdoor work (sunburned neck) which was frowned upon. In American culture it has been used as a way to classify people that are backwoods or country. Either way the term is a crass way to describe people that live differently
#31
I went on an absolutely wild ride for my 21st birthday. I was totally blasted by the end of the night with barely an understanding of what my name was, much less how old I was. Anyways, on our way home (Me and my big group of friend rented a limo for the night, no drunk driving here!) I had to take a piss but it was late and nowhere was open. So the driver stopped in a mall parking lot and I just relieved myself in by a light post. It wasn't until the next morning that I realized I couldn't find my phone. I had no idea what happened to it but my girlfriend got a call later that day from my number. Turns out one of the street cleaner/maintenance guys for the mall had found my phone and it was his daughter calling to say they had found it (as her father didn't speak English). I explained the situation and offered to come pick it up but she said it was fine and they would mail it. A few days later I received my phone in the mail with a Happy Birthday card. They could have just kept the phone and sold it or he could have just turned it in somewhere like a homeless shelter or the Mall's lost and found at the security office, but he didn't. He and his daughter took the time out of their day to go to the store, get a birthday card, pack it and my phone in an envelope, run out to the post office, and mail it to me. It's an act of kindness I'll never forget. Especially considering I had just pissed all over the street he had to clean.
#32
I was on a tram and I didn’t have a ticket and the ticket inspectors came on. I got asked to have my ticket seen and I said I “couldn’t find it on me” and he said he’ll come back so I can look for it. There was a stranger sat on the seat behind me who had a ticket, he gave it to me and he got off at the next stop. Guy gave me his ticket so I wouldn’t be issued a fine.
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
You’re confusing the f**k out of all of us. Would you like to try again in a literate manner?
Load More Replies... #33
I was drunk on my front porch one night, me and a couple of friends were shooting the s!@#. I lived in a rough neighborhood at the time. Lotta homeless people, but most of them were decent people just down on their luck. Anyway I see a homeless guy walking by my house and I holler out to him “Yo man you want a beer?” And he’s like “man HELL yeah, thank you.” So he comes up into the yard, I give him a beer and an extra one for the road. He starts going on about how he misses his son and how he never gets to see him anymore. We all sit and listen to him. He starts crying and says he bought his kid a bag of brand new Hanes socks and his mom wouldn’t let him have them. Now I don’t know what he did to deserve such treatment. Maybe he’s a total son of a b!@#$ and deserves to be where he is, maybe not, I have no idea. But what I do know is, whatever his past, he was having a very human moment at the time and he was super thankful, not just for the beer, but that me and my friends were listening and talking with him. Just letting him vent. Then he tries to give me the pack of socks he bought for his kid, which I VEHEMENTLY refused. I was like “man you keep em, your feet might get cold out there.” But he wasn’t hearing it. I mean he refused to keep them. He flat out insisted that I take them. Eventually it became obvious he wasn’t gonna take no for an answer and he wore me down and I accepted them. I guess he didn’t need the reminder. He moved on and the “party” vibe was completely gone. We all just went inside and crashed.
Baby Panda 4 years ago
that's true, however we don't know if he was a bad person or just someone who had some bad luck
Load More Replies... #34
I was in the university library with a really bad cold, super tired and wanting to go home but desperately studying for my upcoming exams really late at night. I thought I was alone, but a stranger came by my desk with an unopened pack of strepsils. He then told me my health was the most important thing I would have on this earth and walked away before I could process what had just happened. I wanted to thank him for his kindness but I never saw him again.
#35
I was walking back from a party in college with my roommate. We each had a girl with us and this drunk, rhinoceros of a man was walking down the street in our direction. I s!@# you not, he was one of the largest and most built people I have ever seen. He was so drunk he was stumbling from the sidewalk into the street and s!@#. I obvioously wanted to just get home and carry on but as soon as we were within earshot he said something along the lines of "Look at these f!@#$%^ skinny dweebs walking home with girls, If this was back in the old times I would just f!@# you both up and take em with me. How you like that ladies?" All 4 of us were terrified but my drunked brain just told me to make him a buddy and bring him along. For our safety and his. I told him we were going to another party and he should totally come with us! We walked for like 15 minutes together and he totally flipped the switch. Stopped being all agro, told us his life story and how his GF sucks and cheated on him. How he was just going to get a burrito and was lonely. After awhile of chit chatting and walking with us all, to a party that didn't exist while I had no clue where we were headed or what the plan was. He just said he was tired and was going to go get that burrito. Gave us his phone number and told him hit him up if we found the party.
CultOfBambi 4 years ago
Hey Hana, are you OK? Not sure if you're having serious issues or just spouting nonsense for fun - I hope it's the second one! :o)
Load More Replies... #36
Standing in line waiting to board a plane home in Italy. Guy with bleach Blonde hair in a leather jacket starts telling me about how he's going home after living in Italy teaching girls to speak English from the back of a van for several years, just about to get on the plane and a security person points at him, snaps a rubber glove onto their hand and then beckons him over with their newly gloved finger. He never made the flight.
WilvanderHeijden 4 years ago (edited)
Buttcrack exam, condoms with drugs, free ride to the Iron Bar Hotel.
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Kiss Army 4 years ago
My guess would be that he was smuggling drugs and the rubber glove was being put on for a search of some kind...
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#37
Overcrowded subway. Busy pre-covid morning. A lady runs to get in. The door closes on her bag so she kneels to move it. While kneeling, the door closes again but this time on her hair. So she's stuck kneeling in the subway with her hair in the door. When the train starts to move, she just quietly says "f!@#". Me and the guy next to me we're completely red trying to control our laughter. I don't recall the poor lady, but I think about that guy sometimes.
Jetty (He/Him,She/Her) 4 years ago (edited)
bruh how small of a d**k do you have to have to laugh at a person who is in a position like that Edit: delted the old edit lmao.
Melanie King 4 years ago
i find it interesting that because of how much covid changed stuff, people feel the need to clarify "pre-covid" now
The cation 4 years ago
Okay, i hear what u guys are saying, but how is he supposed to help her? like what would you do?
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What do you think ?
Uncommon Boston 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 years ago
Many of these stories renew one's faith in the natural goodness of humanity - and summon those darn onion-chopping ninjas!
DogMom 4 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.
Uncommon Boston 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 years ago
Many of these stories renew one's faith in the natural goodness of humanity - and summon those darn onion-chopping ninjas!
DogMom 4 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.
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