on being kind

Being kind to others isn’t hard. Smile and say “hello.” It’s that easy.

When you say “hello” to perfect stranger, give a compliment to a friend, or help someone who needs assistance, you get so much back in return. This is especially true when you don’t expect anything. It can be quite surprising.

I’d sent an email to my contact at the half marathon I’d recently ran. My main intent was to be sure that they knew that I’d not run the entire course and, therefore, should not have any time posted in the race results. Unlike following the Portland Marathon, this time I did NOT want them to piece together my time.

In my email, I also mentioned the fallen runner whom I’d offered a helping hand. In doing so, I’d hoped to hear that he was okay. Initially, I heard nothing. I took it as no-news-is-good-news. Then today, I received an email from the race staff saying “thank you” and introducing me to the wife of my fallen friend who was copied on the message. The message stated that she and her husband wanted to extend their thanks to me.

Emails were exchanged and later I got to talk to my new friend. I’m happy to report that he’s doing well.

Oh, and the event also offered me a complimentary race entry for 2011. All this, just for being kind.