"Keep on smiling!"

This morning as I was walking to the bus stop, running late, upset and angry about a thousand things, and trying not let my blood pressure skyrocket any higher (because at this point, I am fairly concerned I am going to die of a heart attack before I turn 27...), my brisk walk was halted to a complete stop as a garbage truck backed up across my crosswalk. I regrettably and unintentionally shot the man directing the truck an incredibly peeved look as he stopped me and then motioned for me to walk around. I suppose I am used to vehicles and their operators giving absolutely no concern for pedestrians or perhaps I have become a bitter person, mad at the world. (I hope not to the latter!) Whatever the reason, I wish I could run back and apologize to the man for being so rude and grumpy; he was just doing his job, one he probably doesn't like but that pays the bills and provides for his family. As I walked around, he stopped, smiled at me even as I didn't look over, and said, "Keep on smiling! I hope you have a good day!" Taken by surprised, I looked up and mustered a "thank you."

In that moment, I wished I could take back the annoyance I had conveyed and also overwhelmed by the simple kindness of a total stranger that wanted to pass on a smile. There still is a great deal of kindness in the world, and the moral of the story is that no one knows what battles each person is fighting on the inside no matter how they may appear or dress on the outside.

Even though you can't see this, kind stranger, thank you for reminding me the sun is shining and smiles are the simplest yet most powerful gift. I think it's my  turn to pass on a few smiles.

You never know how important a simple act of kindness can be.