Meeting New Neighbors
One day I pulled up to my apartment building and noticed a father and daughter unloading a moving truck. Normally I shy away from contact with strangers. That particular day, though, I felt like I should just help these people unload their truck. I approached them to introduce myself, welcome them to the town and offer to help. After changing into proper shoes (I was wearing flip-flops), I went over and helped them move all of their belongings into the apartment. After we finished, we talked some and I got to know my new neighbors. It might seem insignificant, but it seems like people are less open and friendly with their neighbors these days. I want to change that, at least in my small apartment complex. As we talked I discovered they were from Florida just like me!
During this particular time in my life, I was going through a really difficult breakup with my girlfriend of seven years. I didn’t feel like helping anyone or doing anything positive, but I figured why not? And I’m glad I did. Also, as luck would have it, their daughter is my age (college student) and we’ve developed a friendship.
The reward was the act itself, though. I got to know my new neighbors and made some new friends in the process. And I felt really good about it. Since then, I’ve tried expanding my comfort zone to perform other random acts of kindness. So far, so good. I’d encourage everyone else to do the same!
Pass this story on to a friend or colleague.
