In times of worldwide pandemic, where social distance is the new norm, people have had no choice but to rethink the attention they give to other people. We have had to redefine, some more, some less, the limits of who we really care about, and think of what kind of relationships we lack or need. No wonder so many people have ended up cutting ties with distant friends and strengthening the bond with a few real friends.
While longing for human connection, we have realized the real value of friendships we kept. After all, being in good company, where you can laugh, cry, forget about some things and remember others, make new memories, slow down time, aspire and inspire, is probably one of the biggest joys there is. And sometimes, in these occasions blessed by the universe, we meet people we feel an instant bond with. We can be total strangers, but it doesn’t matter.
So today, Bored Panda has compiled a wholesome collection of stories about total strangers finding immediate connection. It proves that there are relationships beyond our beloved real friends, and that maybe, we all are friends out there still waiting for the moment we will meet each other.
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My Heart
To find out more about how the pandemic affected our interactions with others, as well as some more things we always wanted to know about finding friends and maintaining the friendships we have, we spoke with Shasta Nelson. Nelson is a friendship expert, speaker, and author of three books including “Frientimacy: How to Deepen Friendships for Lifelong Health and Happiness,” so she had a lot of useful insights to share about it.
“The pandemic has obviously reduced a lot of our opportunities for face-to-face connections and the social interaction that often happens spontaneously due to close proximity. A lot of people are feeling lonelier and are reporting higher emotional stress,” Nelson explained.
The Kindest Stranger
So I thought it was a good idea to fly by myself with a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old we were standing in line in security, on the verge of tears because Wyatt was screaming and James was exhausted. Out of the blue, one mom stops the line for security and says “here, jump in front of me! I know how it is!” Wyatt fell asleep and I was trying to carry everyone’s carry-on when another mom jumps out of her place in line and says “hand me everything, I’ve got it”. When I said thank you to both of them they said “don’t you worry, we’re going to make sure you get on that flight.” The second woman takes everything and helps me get it through security and, on top of all that, she grabs all of it and walks us to the gate to make sure we get on the flight. To top it all off, Wyatt starts to scream at take off before he finally falls back to sleep. After about 45 min, this angel comes to the back and says “you look like you need a break” and holds Wyatt for the rest of the flight AND walks him all the way to the baggage claim, hands him to blake, hugs me and says “Merry Christmas!”
Making A New Friend
There's No Limit To The Ways You Can Make Connections In Life
On the other hand, a lot of people are also reporting more meaningful interactions than ever. This is because they started “focusing time and energy on going deeper with fewer people. We have felt more comfortable being vulnerable, have reconnected with long-distance relationships, and have learned new things about each other as we base more of our shared time together on conversations more than on activities,” the friendship expert explained.
"That's No Blizzard. That's My Sister”
Older Gentleman Teaches Young Guy How To Tie His Tie
The young guy sitting down was struggling with his tie. The woman in the red coat noticed, and asked "Do you know how to tie it properly?" The young guy said "No ma'am." She taps her husband and says "Come to this side (her right side; he was standing on her left side) and teach this young man how to tie his tie." The older gentleman moved without hesitation (almost a reflex response) and gave him a step-by-step tutorial; then - afterward - the elder gentleman watched the young gentleman repeat the steps and show him that he had it.
Toddler Bonding With A Stranger At A US Airport
Last night, while waiting to board our plane, my daughter was being her usual inquisitive self wanting to meet and say “hi” to everyone she could, until she walked up on this man. He reached out and asked if she wanted to sit with him. He pulled out his tablet and showed her how to draw with it, they watched cartoons together, and she offered him snacks. This wasn’t a short little exchange, this was 45 minutes. Watching them in that moment, I couldn’t help but think, different genders, different races, different generations, and the best of friends. This is the world I want for her.
For anyone who feels like finding new friends is getting harder as we are getting older, Nelson said that it can definitely feel so. However, “it has less to do with age and more to do with the fact that the Consistency— repetitive time together—required for friendship felt more automatic when we were in school. The only equivalent we have now where we see the same people on an ongoing basis is the workplace, but we haven’t always been as encouraged to socialize there as we did when we were kids in school.”
As a result, “now, in order to build that ongoing, regular interaction that allows us to bond, we often have to initiate it, schedule it, and plan it,” Nelson added.
A New Friend
Flying Home For The Holidays Dressed To Surprise The Family. Before The Flight, I Met This Stranger At The Airport. Instant Best Friends
An Older Gentleman Came In By Himself To Eat At A Restaurant In PA. He Was Telling Some Stories To His Server, Who Went On Break And Joined Him During His Meal
some people just need a story to be heard, nice of the server to do that
I think, also, the server realized he could learn something from the stories, whether it’s history from someone who was there, or life advice from someone who has been there, done that, got a closet full of tee shirts he’ll gladly share.
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The elderly have some great stories and majority are totally hilarious too. I love the company of older people
I had an elderly customer that came in every day when things were more quite. I would get him is order then we would go over the newspaper and read each others horoscopes, read the funnies, do some trivia, and I always had a ton of jokes I had looked up to tell him. His wife had died and he came in every day just to get out of the house. I miss him still. Been 10 years since I worked there and he is the only part of that job I miss. We had to split tips and he put a $50 in our tip jar then took me aside and handed me a $100 for Christmas and told me if I put it in the jar he would take it right back, it was my personal Christmas present from him for me alone. I cried.
I'm starting to feel like hitler compared to all these wonderful people
I miss tuesday afternoons with my great grandmother. The stories she could tell of her life was the best history lessons I've ever got.
I've said it before...most people just want to feel heard, be seen. Elderly people often feel left behind as the world moves on, unseen and unheard. This server gave this man a true gift.
I got asked by my boss years ago why I spent so much time talking to this elderly couple that came for dinner at least once every week. I told him that some people come out to socialize, because they're isolated , or in this case, possibly autistic and/or dementia to boot. The meal is just a bonus.
I wish more young people saw the beauty in what is to be told by the elderly. I wish the elderly had constant interactions like this... People might not realize it but it's what would keep the elderly going... A reason to get up... A feeling of still belonging
There is a wealth of knowledge, and experience to be gained from someone who's been thru it. Our elders should be revered.
Such a great way to escape the mindset of work. Old people always have the best stories.
When I worked fast food I did this to my customers. Unfortunately since I quit 5 years ago some have passed away and I went to their funeral. One man that passed his daughter gave me a hug and said thank you for being so kind to my dad.
Stories from older generations are the best. They've seen it and lived it all. So much to be learned from them. Great job, server. You are a kind soul.
This is why I love the idea of people libraries, instead of taking out a book you get to speak to a person, doesn’t really matter what age they are but it’s usually elderly people who have interesting stories and information about things that aren’t in any book. I have to admit that I would have loved to have the opportunity to loan out Ann Frank or those who started the stonewall riots
what a kind and generous young person. Makes me want to know him
When I was working I would go in peoples homes. A lot of the ‘old timers’ would start talking and I would feed questions to them. Everyone has gems inside of them to be let out! These were some of the greatest conversations I have been in!
Wouldn't it be fantastic if we could combine the young yet to experience life with the elderly and their stories. To see and value both.
Not always. The prime of their lives is our History & the world was a Very different place.
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Listen to older folks. You'll learn what real strength and loneliness is
I learnt so much from customers like this, real work, relationship and life advice, great handy ideas on ‘how to’s’ wether it be a project or people.
I sat down with an old guy in a bar once, was having a really good time until he went full on racist.
Reminds me of a man in my town who had tons of medals on his jacket from WWII. The type of guy everyone knew. He had so many stories. He passed away last year at 100.
Maybe the stories were really interesting and helpful. Maybe it is the older man who is doing the younger one a favour.
Nelson also shared in what circumstances it’s possible for two complete strangers to become friends. “As I look at all the social science that researches relationships, I have found that there are three factors that are always present: 1) Consistency—repetitive time and shared experiences, 2) Positivity—positive feelings that leave us feeling accepted as we enjoy each other, and 3) Vulnerability—sharing and learning about each other.”
“So, yes,” she confirmed, “we can take strangers and create friendships as long as those two people spend time together in ways that leave them both feeling more known and more appreciated.”
Came Across This Today, Shows That Compassion Can Be All Anybody Needs To Pick Themselves Up
"So this is a picture of me (on the left) and Darren (a homeless guy from Liverpool). Every day on my way to work I see Darren. He says hello, we have a chat, and I go get him a cup of coffee. He's a massive Everton fan and I'm a massive Liverpool fan, but we always have good banter about the football.
Darren used to have a job, and a girlfriend, but he lost all that after his girlfriend passed away and he went into depression. Now he lives on the streets in Liverpool.
So I decided, that instead of spending money on stupid things at Christmas (like cards and expensive food) I'd use the money to get Darren and I tickets to an EVERTON match. When I told him he burst out crying and gave me the best hug ever. We had a great time at the match and he was so grateful (he even offered to buy the coffee this time).
Anyway, the reason I'm posting this today is that Darren is no longer on the streets. He's got a council flat and is working part-time. Last week he had me round for dinner. I'm so proud of him.
I posted this story to show you that a little bit of kindness can go so far and help get someone on the right track again. I used to drink coffee with Darren on the streets, then I did it at Goodison Park, and now we drink it in his flat."
Every Thursday, My Heart Is Full When I See The Joy That Our Amazing Garbage Man Brings Brooklyn When He Honks And Waves At Her With A Big Smile
And today, we finally got to meet him! Brooklyn and I wrapped up one of her birthday cupcakes and waited for him. When he came down our street, she ran to the corner. We were waving like usual and I motioned for him to come over by us. He pulled over, got out and gave us his BIG smile. Brooklyn was instantly speechless as she handed him the cupcake. I explained to him that he makes our day every Thursday, and we really appreciate the honking and waving, and how special of a day it is for us.
Then... (melt my heart)... he explained that he looks forward to seeing us every Thursday as well. He said that he has a meeting every Thursday morning and always tries to get out of there in a hurry so that he can make sure to see us every week.
That man is gorgeous I'd be standing waiting outside just to see that smile. That wee girl is so cute i love her boots
Snow White Comforts Boy With Autism Who Had A Meltdown In Disney World
I wanted to share an amazing experience that I had today Sunday August 25th in Epcot. My son Brody has Autism and is non verbal. We went to meet Snow White by the fountain at the Germany Pavilion at 4:00 this afternoon. My son was having an autism meltdown. He was crying and was overwhelmed and just having a hard time. Snow White was amazing with him!! She kissed, hugged and cuddled him. He was laying his head crying on her lap. She then took him for a walk away from the crowd! She was amazing. She held his hand, danced with him, took him over to a bench and sat with him. She went above and beyond!! She took so much time with him. She was a pure angel! She was magical and my family is forever thankful and touched!
Is there such a thing as an instant bond? To this, Nelson explained that we might instantly feel an interest in someone—something that makes us more curious and excited to get to know them. However, “to actually be bonded to someone requires a lot of time together so we can get to know each other.”
“Our closest relationships are those where we feel known and loved, and we can’t get there without logging hours together to incrementally learn those things about each other. In fact, some studies suggest it takes us 200 hours together before we really feel like we are best friends and can truly rely on each other,” Nelson concluded.
He Keeps Me Safe
It was Dress Like Your Favorite Person Day at 5-year-old Easton’s school today. Easton wanted to go as his school security officer Jeffery because he says “he keeps me safe.” So, his mom made him a shirt and surprised Jeffery at school. Best buds for sure!
This Is 95 Hirane From Japan. I Accidentally Entered His Shop To Ask For Directions. So How We Got Talking And Became Good Friends
And now he dedicates 2 hours everyday to teach me Japanese.
"Don’t Judge A Book By Its Cover"
Sad we have a world where that's a legit concern for her, impressed that he was informed about it and was willing to go out of his way to make sure it didn't happen.
Elderly Man Finds A Fishing Mate After Posting A Classified Ad
After his fishing buddy passed away, 75-year-old widower Ray Johnstone posted a classified ad in search of a friend. He just wanted someone to go fishing with and offered to split costs with anyone who owns a boat. His ad got over 60k views, and he had offers from people around the world – including a guy who took him on an all-expense-paid, deep sea fishing getaway.
Grandma Accidentally Invites Stranger To Thanksgiving - Now, They’re Like Family
This has been on bored panda before. The old guy died, but they still meet up and always set a place for him. It restores your faith in humanity.
A Police Officer In North Carolina Spent His Lunch Break Sharing Pizza With A Homeless Woman
Be Kind To Each Other
These Teens At The Skateboard Park Treating My 5-Year-Old Like He's One Of Them
It means so much to little kids to hang out with teens and be like them even if it's for a short while. They're so sweet
Cashier Bro Looking Out For A Regular
This Kid
Just Two Friends On A Commute
This Is My Uber Driver Beni, He Took Me To The Hospital And Keeping Me Company Since Most Of My Family Lives Out Of The State
Well now, looking at Beni's shirt slogan as well, I think he is perhaps this kind of person. A good human. Stay Human! (As in the t shirt slogan, not a weird 'stay' command directed at you all 😅)
Watching The Game As Bros
I love it when parents are such good role models for their kids. Modelling behavior is one of the best ways for children to learn.
That Smile On Her Face Is Priceless
This lady in the washroom looking at me said, “I remember when my girlfriends and I would get dressed up and go out. I miss that.” So I said why miss it, we’re all out right now, aren’t we? Story short we have a new friend.
A Year Ago My Little Sister Left This World. This Weekend Her Heart Recipient Met My Mom And Shared Her Heartbeat
It amazes me when donor's families and recipients are able to get to know each other. In Australia they must be kept anonymous.
A Stranger Drove Two Hours And Used His Drone To Recover Meadow, Who Was Lost In The Woods For 10 Days
Caring Friend
People like this(and all the others in this post)reaffirm my faith in humanity.
We Can Only Fight Hate With Kindness
Encouragement From A Stranger At The Gym
If anyone recognizes this man in the orange shirt, you walk up to him and shake his hand. He doesn't seem like the bragging type so I'll brag for him, while working out at Planet Fitness in Pascagoula a special needs man constantly approached him about 10 different times in a 45 minute time span with handshakes, hugs, questions, and interactions. Not only did this man smile, laugh, give him workout advice multiple times, and joke back with him while getting in his own workout but he didn't care who was watching while doing it. His patience, compassion, and friendliness was next level admirable. Towards the end of the workout the special needs man approached me and pointed to the man in the orange shirt and said "that's my friend" with a huge smile on his face. The pics aren't the best but they were the best creeper pics I could take at the time and this guy deserves recognition. The world needs more people like this man in the orange shirt, well done sir.
I bet to the guy in the orange shirt he just helping out a fellow human, no biggie.
Saw An Elderly Man Make A Move And Patiently Wait For Another Player. An Unlikely Partner Appeared And Warmed My Heart
Last Year I Gave A Guy CPR After He Had A Heart Attack While Driving. He Ended Up Surviving But We Couldn’t Meet Because Of His Condition And Covid. We Finally Got To Meet Up
Grandma Bro
████████! ████ usa ████ ████ offended ████ ██████ ████ ████ ████████ ████ ████ ████ censored? ████████ ████ ████ boredpanda ████ s ████ ████ wanky ███████ spanners?
Twelve Years Ago I Played A Game Online, Met A Kid And We Became Best Friends, Brothers. A Week Ago, I Met Him For The First Time In Person
Later that week, I was the best man at his wedding.
"These Workmen Are Awesome. This Man Has Sat Down For A Few Minutes To Explain To Our Boys All About The Road Works"
These posts are what reminds me of the hope I have in humanity 💞
Some People Are Too Good To Be True
I wouldn't move its rare to get that level of kindness from neighbours. Most are ass hats who complain about your bins or length of grass
Wholesome Friendship Beginning
Incredibly kind and loving gesture. And the friendship is the best gift of all I'm sure.
My Brother's Bike Broke Down And This Man Pushed It 5 Km (With His Scooter), Told The Mechanic We Needed Help And Then Bought Us Beer While The Mechanic Fixed It
My brother and I were traveling in Vietnam by motorbike. I was using my phone to translate, thanking him so much for the help and telling him we are from Canada. He explained to me that he had left his phone at home but wanted a picture with us. We took some pics using my phone and I added him as a contact. He translated that he would be back in a moment and jumped on his scooter. He returned with cold tigers for each of us. We offered many times to pay him for both his help and beer, but he refused. Again, Mr. Tran, you are a great human.
The hospitality of some cultures is beautiful. I loved Africa and worked and travelled around it I've never met nicer people. Would love to go back
Lowe's Ran Out Of Generators, And A Complete Stranger Gave His Generator To A Woman Whose Father Is Living On Oxygen. People Helping People. I Love My State
I remember this story and it still makes me want to cry. I really hope her dad is okay and I hope that someday this man is also helped if he's ever in a crisis.
My Wife And I Couldn’t Get Our Baby To Stop Crying At The Restaurant, So We Started To Pack Up To Go Home. The Couple Sitting Next To Us Offered To Hold Him So We Could Enjoy A Night
Our baby slept on this kind stranger's shoulder the entire evening!
People Becoming Unexpected Friends During Isolation
They Deserve More Than Minimum Pay
Every Time I️ Come To My Gym, This Man Is Helping This Employee With Calculus
Two Strangers Sit Next To Each Other On A Flight And Meet Their Doppelganger
Seriously though, they ought to do dna tests to see if there’s a link.
These Friends Met On A Cruise And Reunited Over Twitter
Total Stranger Came And Braided My Hair While I’m In The Hospital After I Asked For Help In A Beauty Facebook Group
Guy Shares His Phone With A Little Boy
People Supporting Each Other
Two Strangers In Indiana Were Eating Alone When The Elderly Woman Asked The Young Man If She Could Join Him. Without Hesitation He Said "Of Course"
Relentless Compressions Saved This Man With V-Fib, And It Couldn’t Have Happened To A Better Person
My wife and I were stopping at the store to get dinner, and I saw an older gentleman laid down in the road in front of the store, so I pulled over and rushed to his side. Another guy was next to him checking his pulse and said he couldn’t find it, so we pulled him out of the road, and immediately begin chest compressions. The two of us worked on him for about five minutes or so while a whole bunch of onlookers just stood there.
The paramedics finally arrived and took over, and after shocking him several times and what felt like a lifetime, were able to stabilize him, and get him to the hospital. Police officer came over and told us he had a massive heart attack. He then shook my hand and congratulated us for saving this complete stranger, and said had we not been there and acted as fast as we did, he absolutely wouldn't have made it.
This morning the family contacted me and I went to the hospital to meet this man. Turns out he had V-fib and passed away three times at the hospital and had we not sprung into action as fast as we did he wouldn’t have even made it there. The doctor told me that people have less than a 10% survival rate, and couldn’t remember the last time he saw somebody survive this.
This man Stephen is super awesome and incredibly funny. Every year he is Santa Claus for the kids in his town and hosts an event called “meet Santa” at the high school, and he even promised me were gonna toss back a few beers when he’s fully recovered. You never know what kind of situation might unfold at any moment, and simply knowing what to might be the difference between someone going home to their family or not.
3 Years Ago Today, A Stranger (Left) Saved My (Right) Life. I Asked My Gaming Community For A Real Life Superhero Who Would Donate A Kidney To Me
Many people came forward and she was a match. I'm happy to be alive!
My Lady Friend Wanted A Piggy Back Picture On The Beach And A Random Biker Watching The Sunset Said He Wanted One Too
The fact that you look happier with the random biker dude... love it lol :D
Hugging Strangers In Fast Food Restaurants. No Big Deal
If only we could all hold on to that as we grow up...being accepting of others without question.
Wholesome Elderly Neighbor
I got married young too. Had no idea how to know if a chicken was cooked properly, used neat bleach around the bath and it took the silicone off and flooded the kitchen ceiling. Fun times.
I Got A Flat Tire In An Unfamiliar Area, These Men Stopped And Offered To Help. They Ended Up Doing All The Work And Wouldn’t Accept Money When I Offered
They used to call truck drivers Knights of the Road because they helped others with their vehicles. These gentlemen are also Knights.
In 2018, I Posted About My Son Who Had Passed Away A Decade Earlier. A Stranger Has Gone Out Of His Way To Reach Out To Me Around The Anniversary For The Past Two Years
That gorgeous face. It hurts so much. My son would have been 22 this year he was stillborn and every August i have one day to really remember him without crying. I hope that lady is doing better
This Beautiful Girl Was Scared During Takeoff & Asked If She Could Hold This Stranger's Hand. Man: "Of Course! It's Going To Be Ok"
He kept her calm & distracted by asking about her family. People are good.
Every Thursday Morning My Little Nephew Waits For The Garbage Man To Arrive So He Can Help. Today They Brought Him A WM Hat To Wear
Always Love A Good Dog Walk Story
Lovely story but why the f**k censor "died"? It's sad, sure, but it's not swear word for gods sake. Ianticipate in few months BP would just censor random words for no reason.
Heartwarming Note After Making A Friend
Eight Years Ago I Entered A "Big Brother" Type Situation With An Awkward 8-Year-Old Kid. We've Been Hanging Out Once A Week Ever Since
Today he towers over me, can drive, slays it in school, and is someone I'm proud to call a friend. He came to visit me in my garden and we got a rare pic together.
I Met Some Of My Best Friends Via World Of Warcraft, And They Were Able To Be In My Wedding This Past March
They came from Maryland and New York all the way to Nebraska, and it still makes me happy.
So I Sit At My Desk All Day And Do School Work/Work-Work, And There's A Guy In The Apartment Building Next To Mine That Does The Same. We Sometimes Make Eye Contact
Yesterday I had enough - time to make some friends, social distance style!
“Online Friends” Are Real Friends
At this point I think there is someone at BP censorship department just taking a piss at us and laughing their ass off.
At A Random Fast Food Restaurant, I Spotted This Kid. We Became Instant Best Friends
We Need More People Like This Girl In The World
A Stranger Was Interested In The Hair Styling Tools I Was Selling On Facebook Marketplace. When She Found Out I Was Studying For Finals, She Left Me A Care Package
This Man Noticed An Older Man Struggling To Find Directions On His Phone. He Asked If He Could Help
He asked if he could help and spent the next 20 minutes teaching him how to use Google Maps, GPS and direction services. What a stud!
I Missed My Connecting Flight And Was Crying By Myself When These Two Complete Strangers Came Up To Me And Helped Me Cheer Up
We chatted while waiting for our plane, and played cards! Thank you so much Matt and Levi! Truly great guys.
This 95-Year-Old Man Sharing His Holiday Photos With A Stranger During Their Flight
My husband works at a nursing home, so naturally, he befriended the 95-year-old man sitting next to him on our 4.5 hour flight. By the end, the man was showing him pics on his digital camera from Christmas and telling him all about his family.
The Older Man Was Playing His Flute For Money By The Cliffs Of Moher In Ireland. The Younger Guy Walked Up, Pulled A Flute Out Of His Coat (Who Carries A Flute?) And Joined Him
It was sweet and the older man earned a lot more money after that.
Wisconsin Bus Driver Holds Nervous 4-Year-Old Boy's Hand On His First Day Of School
Years Ago I Had A Friend On Xbox 360, We Had Become Really Close. Then My Xbox Broke, And I Never Had The Chance To Say Goodbye To Him
Two years later I tried to see if anyone on PS4 had his username: against all odds someone did.
Alright. Alright
Young Man Comes In Alone, Sees The Older Lady Eating By Herself, Asks To Join Her. Instant Friends. This Is What Is Right In The World
At The Start Of Lockdown I Joined A Zoom Group With Complete Strangers. Yesterday Three Of Us Met For The First Time And I Just About Cried
We would talk about life, mental health, being a woman in today’s society, etc. Here’s to new and forever friends, wherever they may be.
Laarrrge
These Two Girls I Met Tonight Spent A Half Hour Comforting This Crying Homeless Woman
She stopped crying minutes after the interaction began and they talked with her for a half-hour about the cool things she had on her, including her Spider-Man blanket and Teen Titans lanyard.
Online Friends Are Real-Life Friends
i've never understood the people who say online friends aren't real life friends. would they say the same thing about pen pals writing to each other from different countries? if anything, online people can easily become one's closest friends! instant messaging makes it so easy to keep in touch, share experiences, & send photos, drawings, & videos. it's so fun to get to know people from different places online! i hope to one day meet my online friends. we were able to meet because of shared interests that we were comfortable talking about online but not in person, so i honestly feel closer to them than any of my "real life" friends. online friends are real life friends!
Little Boy Couldn’t See The Christmas Parade At Disney World Over The Crowd And This Kind Stranger Offered To Lift Him Up So He Could See
This Cashier Got A Very Sweet Birthday Surprise From A Stranger
Me (Left) Meeting My Best Friend For The First Time After Playing Xbox With Him For 5 Years
Went Out Fishing With My Grandpa This Evening And There Was This One Kid Who Had Some Sort Of Mental Handicap
About halfway through our fishing, his rod broke and there were several knots in his line. Not only did my grandpa completely fix his rod he untied the knots. Never been more proud of him.
A few years ago I was walking my elderly dog in a park. There was a young man with a carer, who was pointing at every dog and shouting “Doggy!” He was walking past me to leave the park so I picked up my dog, held her out to him and said “You can stroke her. She’s very gentle”. He stroked her for a minute then kissed her on the head to say goodbye. It was so sweet. One of the happiest memories of my old dog. The carer looked so happy that he had the dog interaction he wanted too.
Homeless Man Loses Bike, Gains Bike And New Friend
Family Accidentally Texts Baby News To Complete Strangers, That Resulted In Surprise Hospital Visit From Strangers
You realise you just shared all their mobile telephone numbers, right?
Not As Impactful As Others I've Seen, But This Is Such A Wholesome Stranger Move
BP censorship people be like: OMG, someone said die! we have to censor it!
Owen Is A Middle School Student Who Rides My High School Bus, I Started Sitting By Him And We Became Good Friends, He Just Handed Me This Letter From His Mom
They Were Seated Next To Each Other On A Flight And Didn't Know Each Other. She Was Flying For First Time And Was Terrified. He Talked Her Through It And Held Her Hand
I was on a flight and was so scared I was almost crying. The man sitting next to me turned out to be a pilot and he told me what every sound and bump was. I still thank God for him.
Strangers Become Friends Through The Gift Of A Kidney Donation
Beautiful picture. They're strangers, but they look to me like they could be sisters. Best wishes for both of them.
My Grandad 89 Went To The Quick Stop Every Morning To Get Coffee For Decades And Became Good Friends With The Owner And His Wife
Went back the other day for the first time in a few weeks after knee surgery and received this note.
Wholesome Gym Community
Everyone starts somewhere. Getting recognized for victory is always an impetus to keep seeking. Bro remembers.
Met This Man On The Train While Our Way To Ella
He was traveling to Badulla to meet his elder daughter. Seeya was so excited to see the daughter and family. Like a little child who gets excited about a new toy. We offered him some food to eat but he took only milo saying his daughter making lunch for him. He wanted to eat that. And can you believe that he is wearing that hat for 40 years and he is so proud of it. A knowledgeable person and such a beautiful soul. Whoever you are, I wish you a long life full of happiness Seeya!
Cheers To The Stranger Across The Aisle With Whom I Played My First Wireless Mario Kart Races
This Military Man Was Very Kind To My Daughter And Helped Keep Her Entertained For Over An Hour
For The Last Three Years, There’s Been A Woman I Say Good Morning To On The School Run Every Day. We’re Complete Strangers
I wrote her a Christmas card to say thank you for always being so kind to me. This morning she handed me this.
Just A Couple Of Months Back We Met In Berlin For A Coffee And Now We Swam Together In The Indian Ocean
I Got To Meet The Incredible Retired Army Veteran, Trina Brown, And Her Amazing Daughter Jon
They were in town visiting UMKC, which Jon will attend in the fall.
I bought their lunch (I’m sneaky) and we had a great talk about life and protecting each other (get vaccinated, friends).
I thanked Trina for her service and wished Jon a terrific first semester as they left, and sat down to eat my perfect barbecue sandwich.
Five minutes later, Trina walked back in and said, “Tally, take my information. If you’re ever in Oklahoma City, you have a place to stay.” Of course, I started crying.
I don’t post this for praise. I post it because I think it’s imperative that we take the time to see people and really listen. I truly believe our lives will be enriched.
My Friends And I Stayed Somewhere For The Weekend. Saturday We Stopped At A Place Which We Thought Might Be A Bar, So I Knocked And Asked Them If It Was
The lady answered the door said "no, but would you like to come in for a beer?" 40 beers and a ton of queen later we came out with 2 new friends!
These Two Beautiful Ladies Didn't Know Each Other But If You Overheard The Conversation And Laughter You Wouldn't Of Known
They don't live too far from one another and they wouldn't have known that if they hadn't started chatting. There are millions and millions of people in this world and though sometimes you might feel alone, your tribe is out there. So reach out and connect, because it shows that not only can you make friends anywhere and anytime, if you put yourself out there, your journey can turn into something wonderful.
I Was Hiking A Slot Canyon With My Family And I Busted My Ankle About 3 Miles In. This Man (On The Left) Did Lead Me Along The Canyon And Down The Ladder Behind Us
He guided my small children and wife down as well since I wasn’t much help to them.
The guy in pink looks exactly like the lead singer of Lover Boy (does his t-shirt reference his hit "everybody's working for the weekend"?)
You Never Know Someone’s Story Until You Ask. This Is Scott. He Was My Neighbor In Baja
We chatted for hours and I learned so much from this amazing individual. Neither one of us wanted anything from each other, except to have a conversation. It was refreshing in a world of “what can you do for me”.
We Started The Journey As Strangers, Ended Up Creating An Unforgettable Bond
Wherever You Travel It’s Great To Meet And Spend Time With Complete Strangers
It’s reminded me that it’s important to be open, welcoming, share stories and help and appreciate others.
These Two Strangers Spontaneously Started Chatting And Laughing Together. I Might Have Caught The Beginning Of A Friendship On Camera
Hiking Makes My Heart So Full. I Love How It Brings People Together. Strangers Become Friends, Friends Become Family
A Stranger Walked Up With No Fear And Asked A Simple Question Before Judging
Last night at the gas station this man Ivory walked up to me staring at my shirt and with respect didn't say anything absurd or rude he simply asked what does that mean to you. From that question, he and I talked for a good 15 mins. Played some jokes, laughed, discussed the ignorance of others and those who jump to conclusions.
He Laughed And I Believe He Was Genuinely Delighted To Have Spent 10 Mins Waiting At A Bus Stop With Me
"I used to work for the best TV program in the world" Attenborough, Bilko, Channel 4 News, Likely lads? "World in Action. " Mike said. Then we chatted about coincidental mutual friends and how life can throw some really sad stuff at you. "Seems to me you are dying nicely" I said.
We Were Strangers But A Simple "Hi" Makes Us Friends
Sometimes It’s Not Your Friends Who Goal Set, Sometimes It’s Not Your Family, But Then It Will Be A Complete Stranger That Came Into Your Life And Forced You To Level Up
Racing Isn't Just About The Action On The Track
This is what I love about the lower levels of motor racing. You go to a race at Brands Hatch or whatever for the lower level racers and you'll get PA announcements asking if anyone has this part or that tool and they'll rock up and hand it over to someone who needs it to make their start.
I Just Met Her And She Immediately Said She Needed Whatever I Had On. 5 Mins Later I’m Sharing All About YL And She Just Started Her New Life
As much as every story warmed my heart here, some of the posts have been around for a while. I really hope that the new ones get upvoted to the final cut so that people have extra ammo in their "humanity isn't doomed" box.
This is what the world truly needs. A beautiful peace and friendship. No matter who we are, what color we have, what religion we follow, we are living the same Earth.
I work in an industry that's very hard hit right now with just a lot of aggression and unkindness. Being a huge baby I cried reading almost all of these. No matter how hard or mean someone is being, I try to go out of my way to help everyone in my path with that extra bit of love, empathy and warmth. One day I hope to be that 'stranger' that turns someone's day better.
I'm so sorry! And you're wonderful--you do an incredibly hard job, made harder by other people.
Load More Replies...
I think this is the best post ever! Thank you BP. I cried though the whole post but they were tears of joy and hope in the world we live in. Indifference should be celebrated and embraced not challenged!
Good grief! Is anyone else emotional? Maybe this caught me at a bad moment, but I cried a lot while reading these.
You are not alone! I cried the best kind of tears through the whole post. My soul is happy, even if I'm still emotional.
Load More Replies... This is my all-time favorite post on BP. We need more of this. We need more kind, caring people like this in the world. My face is splotchy now and eyes are red from crying, but it's been the best kind of happy crying. My soul is soaring now, for it recognizes the beauty in humanity. Thank you for the reminder, BP! 💜 #JustBeKind
I can never get through these articles without tearing up, and I absolutely love it.
I play a game online with my friend (who I also meant on another online game 11 years ago and we met for the first time in person last year!) but she wasn't able to play with me this night a few weeks ago. Sometimes people will chat while playing, my friend and I will use discord but there is an in game feature, and this teen guy was chatting with this younger kid, telling him how to play, etc. Mid game the kid goes "ooh blood" (it's a war game) and the teen dude goes "oh pause" and then talked him through how to remove the blood so you wouldn't have to see it. You can't really pause during play, people can still shoot you, etc, but it was so nice to hear this guy being so nice to this kid.
OK I've reun out of tissues! It has been a wonderful morning with the reminders that we can indeed be good, charitable, kind, generous. . . . Thanks
Thanks for the positive posts... I needed this after the past few days I've had.
One of my closest friends is a 75 year old woman (I'm 43) that lives in Australia (I'm in the USA) that I met in Scotland. We were on the same bus tour for 5 days and a few times there were activities neither of us could do bc of her rheumatoid arthritis and my MS, so while the rest of the group went off, we stayed behind and chatted. We haven't seen each other since that trip 5 years ago, but we talk on the phone a couple times a month, and when I've saved enough, I'm going to visit her. Sometimes the best friendships start from the most unlikely places.
My mother's mother was in her last few weeks before dying of cancer. My mom had been driving the two hours there and back every day. Obviously, this takes it's toll. One evening, her car ran out of gas on the freeway. She just sat there in the shoulder, crying. After a bit, a man pulled in behind her. After talking a bit, they found that they were related. He was the husband of her newly found half sister.
Damn, I did not expect to be crying after reading this. Really sweet posts, all of them 💜
Not sure why they had to say "this little black boy" on the last one. He's just a little boy. His race had nothing to do with the post. Lol. Weird
Due to his autism and speech issues my son has trouble conversing with people. However many times in the park other children, usually a bit older or even early teens will encourage him to join in. Which he does. Even if it’s just running around. When we were last abroad, he hung out with a French boy. Neither of them could talk to each other but they found other ways to communicate. The other boy had a tablet and they would watch cartoons on it.
This series of posts touches on something that actually really irritates me. So many of these posts are based on the idea of a negative view of someone based on their age/appearance/ethnicity, and then when that human being behaves like a normal human being, it's supposed to come as a surprise. And then the secondary idea is, look, there's no racism, because here's a black person and white person interacting. I feel like these posts come from white people who want to say a) I'm not a racist but also b) there isn't really any racism, because see, we can all get along. I just can't help really looking more deeply at what the message is behind some of these posts.
Going through these posts warmed my heart and brought tears to my eyes. Thank you Bored Panda for making my day!
As much as every story warmed my heart here, some of the posts have been around for a while. I really hope that the new ones get upvoted to the final cut so that people have extra ammo in their "humanity isn't doomed" box.
This is what the world truly needs. A beautiful peace and friendship. No matter who we are, what color we have, what religion we follow, we are living the same Earth.
I work in an industry that's very hard hit right now with just a lot of aggression and unkindness. Being a huge baby I cried reading almost all of these. No matter how hard or mean someone is being, I try to go out of my way to help everyone in my path with that extra bit of love, empathy and warmth. One day I hope to be that 'stranger' that turns someone's day better.
I'm so sorry! And you're wonderful--you do an incredibly hard job, made harder by other people.
Load More Replies... I think this is the best post ever! Thank you BP. I cried though the whole post but they were tears of joy and hope in the world we live in. Indifference should be celebrated and embraced not challenged!
Good grief! Is anyone else emotional? Maybe this caught me at a bad moment, but I cried a lot while reading these.
You are not alone! I cried the best kind of tears through the whole post. My soul is happy, even if I'm still emotional.
Load More Replies... This is my all-time favorite post on BP. We need more of this. We need more kind, caring people like this in the world. My face is splotchy now and eyes are red from crying, but it's been the best kind of happy crying. My soul is soaring now, for it recognizes the beauty in humanity. Thank you for the reminder, BP! 💜 #JustBeKind
I can never get through these articles without tearing up, and I absolutely love it.
I play a game online with my friend (who I also meant on another online game 11 years ago and we met for the first time in person last year!) but she wasn't able to play with me this night a few weeks ago. Sometimes people will chat while playing, my friend and I will use discord but there is an in game feature, and this teen guy was chatting with this younger kid, telling him how to play, etc. Mid game the kid goes "ooh blood" (it's a war game) and the teen dude goes "oh pause" and then talked him through how to remove the blood so you wouldn't have to see it. You can't really pause during play, people can still shoot you, etc, but it was so nice to hear this guy being so nice to this kid.
OK I've reun out of tissues! It has been a wonderful morning with the reminders that we can indeed be good, charitable, kind, generous. . . . Thanks
Thanks for the positive posts... I needed this after the past few days I've had.
One of my closest friends is a 75 year old woman (I'm 43) that lives in Australia (I'm in the USA) that I met in Scotland. We were on the same bus tour for 5 days and a few times there were activities neither of us could do bc of her rheumatoid arthritis and my MS, so while the rest of the group went off, we stayed behind and chatted. We haven't seen each other since that trip 5 years ago, but we talk on the phone a couple times a month, and when I've saved enough, I'm going to visit her. Sometimes the best friendships start from the most unlikely places.
My mother's mother was in her last few weeks before dying of cancer. My mom had been driving the two hours there and back every day. Obviously, this takes it's toll. One evening, her car ran out of gas on the freeway. She just sat there in the shoulder, crying. After a bit, a man pulled in behind her. After talking a bit, they found that they were related. He was the husband of her newly found half sister.
Damn, I did not expect to be crying after reading this. Really sweet posts, all of them 💜
Not sure why they had to say "this little black boy" on the last one. He's just a little boy. His race had nothing to do with the post. Lol. Weird
Due to his autism and speech issues my son has trouble conversing with people. However many times in the park other children, usually a bit older or even early teens will encourage him to join in. Which he does. Even if it’s just running around. When we were last abroad, he hung out with a French boy. Neither of them could talk to each other but they found other ways to communicate. The other boy had a tablet and they would watch cartoons on it.
This series of posts touches on something that actually really irritates me. So many of these posts are based on the idea of a negative view of someone based on their age/appearance/ethnicity, and then when that human being behaves like a normal human being, it's supposed to come as a surprise. And then the secondary idea is, look, there's no racism, because here's a black person and white person interacting. I feel like these posts come from white people who want to say a) I'm not a racist but also b) there isn't really any racism, because see, we can all get along. I just can't help really looking more deeply at what the message is behind some of these posts.
Going through these posts warmed my heart and brought tears to my eyes. Thank you Bored Panda for making my day!
