Years ago, I was in a tumultuous relationship living in Portland, Oregon, far from my home in Southern California.

I found myself in a tough situation. I was seven months pregnant and working full time while my husband stayed at home. His job was to help us find a cheaper place to live since our rent was $1,200 and my paycheck was $1,400.

Often, I would work nights in not the best neighborhood, and my husband was supposed to meet me at the store at 10:30 to walk the mile or so home with me. Many nights, he came late or didn't come at all.

This did not sit well with my manager, Kevin. He was a very kind family man who adored his wife and seemed very content with life. Whenever my husband didn't show up, Kevin would drive me home without asking any questions.

Eventually, I found myself dealing with some very difficult circumstances at home, and it became clear that my relationship was not going to work out. My husband was arrested and extradited back to Southern California. My mother-in-law immediately drove to Oregon to pick me up and bring me back closer to family.

When my newborn son was only a few months old, I decided to distance myself from what was becoming an abusive situation with my ex. My sister lived in Anchorage and was able to send me and my son a ticket.

I decided to take an early flight with a small layover in Portland. I had friends who wanted to meet the baby, so one of them showed up at 4 a.m. to bring me to a small gathering of some of the people I loved in that crazy, beautiful town.

When it was time to leave for Anchorage, I was walking through the airport when I saw Kevin and his wife getting ready to board a flight for an Oregon Ducks game. He was a huge fan.

We smiled at each other and exchanged some kind words. It was nice for him to see me and my new son on our way to a better life.

I will never forget his kindness. ❤️