Kindness Culture @ Victoria Station
Today’s blog is written by guest blogger Linda-Rose Michel who heads up the Watering Hole’s Totton Random Acts of Kindness Club. Linda is a student volunteer from Michigan, USA
A Kindness Culture – What if?
Yesterday I was at the Victoria Station in London visiting a friend, when I needed to make a quick trip to the ladies. To my annoyance, it cost 30p just to get in. I started thinking to myself how unfair it was to charge someone to use the toilet… maybe even indecent.
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“What if I had no money?” I thought. “What then? I would be forced into a very awkward situation in such a public place. It should be a basic human right to use the facilities”
These thoughts were running through my head as I washed my hands when I heard it; the inevitable. Someone was outside trying to get in without any success.
Perhaps she didn’t have the right coins or the correct amount of change. Perhaps she didn’t have any money at all. No sooner had I analysed the situation, when I heard a second voice. She was asking if the lady needed assistance and how she could help.
There was a mumble, clinking coins, and then a very thankful person thanking her benefactor.
“You’re welcome. It was no trouble at all” she replied “Just pay it forward.” and she was gone.
I doubt they realised I witness the exchange but it really made me think. What if this concept of helping people, and paying it forward were the norm? What if kindness wasn’t an action, but a lifestyle built into our culture? How different that would be? How much happiness would that bring and how much stress would be relieved? If you’re looking out for everyone, and everyone were looking out for you, how much brighter would life be?
Have you witnessed a Random Act of Kindness? Then tell us about it in the comments below. We would love to hear about it. You do not need to mention any names just describe the incident.The Totton Random Acts of Kindness Club (TOTRAK) is committed to embracing the Kindness Culture. We encourage people to look around in everyday situations to see what difference they can make; to make a habit of it. We’re excited to launch a brand new VIP Club for those who are interested in regularly joining in events and sharing ideas to make a difference. Check our RAK Facebook Page regularly (better still “like” the page) for more information or contact Linda-Rose (07730 682337)
