Brighten Your Day

It just happened 10 minutes ago, I saw a lady outside Tesco clutching a 10L bag full of cans (to trade in for money). She asked if it was open (it was 7am), and today's Sunday, so I told her it would open later at 9am. She told me she was evicted years ago and is now homeless. She's also 4 months pregnant. I offered her water, and she said she would love some. I was weary but it was only two euro for water, so I just thought why not?

I had to get it from my university's vending machine though, so she followed me halfway there, telling me she was a recovering addict, how the city government made broken promises to those who couldn't afford housing here. I didn't think much, I was tired, just pulled an all-nighter. I asked if she was allergic to anything, if she liked chocolate, if she wanted an energy drink too. Again, I didn't think much of it because I didn't think it would be that much.

She waited for me outside, while I got the food and drinks from the vending machine. I ended up just getting water, a Powerade, a mars bar and a croissant. I also gave her 5 euro, which again isn't much (it's an expensive city here). She said she'd never had someone treat her with so much kindness, as people usually spat in her direction and treated her like garbage. She told me she might name her baby after me. She asked for a hug too, which I consented to, then told me I shouldn't consent to strangers asking for hugs. She thanked me around ten times, to which I told her to take care of herself, all the best, I hope you'll be safe and healthy.

I'm in my university now, dazed at what just happened. I still don't think it was a lot. Maybe I should've given her more. I don't like drawing attention to myself or doing these things for clout, but I did want to post on here that even the smallest of things can mean the world for someone. A drink, a pastry, a person to talk to. Maybe if we did the little things for people, the world would be a better place.

I hope she's doing well. I hope you, who's reading this, are also doing well. I hope you have a wonderful day, wherever you are.

Image: stock photo (no image provided by author)