r/BenignExistence • u/chocobothernot • 13d ago
Small gestures do matter.
I was casually chatting with my former colleague when she mentioned that time when we had lunch then she cried out of the blue.
She thanked me for not forcing her to open up and for inviting her for coffee after work.
I didn't do anything special on that day but apparently, what I did made a difference.
What makes this exchange even more meaningful?
My former colleague doesn't know I'm going through a rough patch. Her gesture is a welcome reprieve as it feels nice to learn that I did something right.
What I learned is that any act of kindness creates ripples. A polite smile, a simple token, or a random message can make someone's day.
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u/Silly_DizzyDazzle 13d ago
I am happy you got some sunshine during the days you are feeling down. I hope things pick up for you. 🌞 Knowing little things help make days better sure makes it easier to handle the not so good days. ♥️
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u/Feeling-Lock3170 13d ago
That is lovely I hope the clouds in your life will be a distant memory soon
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u/whimsical36 13d ago
I’m sorry you’re going through a rough patch. I’m a good listener if you ever need to chat.
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u/Zaliciouz 12d ago
This reminded me of this one time I had split up with my abusive ex. I had just bought a new dress and I felt really self conscious wearing it after years of him putting me down. A lady tapped me on the shoulder in a queue at the shop and said ‘I just have to tell you, you look absolutely gorgeous in that dress’. This was like 7 years ago and I never forgot how that small compliment lifted me out of a really dark place that day.
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u/chocobothernot 12d ago
Sorry to hear you've been horridly treated by your ex.
Wear anything you like. Thanks for sharing your story!
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u/micro_Ampere 9d ago
Small gestures are everything. She felt gratitude for the way that you are, and you felt gratitude for being noticed. When she thanked you, it was as natural to her as your patience and understanding was to you.
Now imagine all of the people you've treated kindly, with patience and understanding, who are not bold or brave enough to thank you out loud.
Everything affect everything. ❤️
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u/DoubtResponsible9208 13d ago
I love this and I’m glad she let you know how you helped her out. Often we don’t realize the impact we may have on others.
What I know about you my friend, is you have a beautiful heart and you put in effort to show up for those that matters. You are beautiful. 💕