In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the significance of the little things we do. We often get caught up in the hustle and bustle, forgetting that sometimes, it’s these small acts that matter the most. Such a reminder came to me during one of my routine evening walks in downtown Lincoln, NE.
Every night, whether or not I’ve already exercised at the gym or taken a stroll elsewhere, I make it a point to embark on a calming walk in downtown Lincoln. It’s a chance for me to unwind and connect with the city’s rhythm. Little did I know that on one such evening, I would encounter a moment that would reaffirm my faith in the goodness of humanity.
As I approached the side of P Street, near the Starbucks, I encountered an older homeless man, likely in his late sixties, who introduced himself as Alex Scott Little. With a warm handshake, he greeted me, and I reciprocated, introducing myself as Keith. Little did I know that this brief encounter would leave a lasting impression on me.
Alex’s eyes fell on my growth mindset t-shirt, which bore the inspirational words: “I can learn from my mistakes, I can improve by working hard, I will never give up, I’m determined to do my best, Self-Reflection helps me succeed, I can overcome challenges with effort, and I can train my brain.” He read it aloud and seemed genuinely impressed by the message it conveyed. This unexpected connection through words was the beginning of something heartwarming.
Pointing to a young man who was engrossed in a game of chess with an unnamed homeless individual nearby, Alex introduced him as “Jack from Chicago.” Jack appeared to be a young college student, and it impressed me that he was out on the sidewalk at a table playing chess with a homeless man.
As I prepared to continue my walk, Alex extended his hand once more, saying, “Bring it in, brother,” and we shared a heartfelt hug. In the background, the other homeless man asked for money, but I had to decline, explaining that I didn’t have any cash on me. Alex, displaying a sense of understanding and compassion, simply said, “Don’t worry about it.”
As I continued my walk, my heart was filled with warmth. This encounter reminded me of the kindness that exists in the world, even in unexpected places. It was a beautiful example of human connection transcending social boundaries.
Homeless individuals, like Alex and the unnamed chess player, are not inherently bad or lazy people. They often find themselves in dire circumstances due to a variety of factors such as mental illness, stressful life situations, or the loss of a job. Some may develop dependencies on drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. However, it’s important to help them without enabling their vices. Offering food or support rather than money can make a significant difference in their lives.
In the end, my evening walk turned into a powerful lesson about empathy and the potential for meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. It reminded me that, sometimes, it’s the little things we do – like sharing a kind word or a hug – that counts the most and can brighten someone’s day, even if just for a moment.