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There are many forms of kindness. You could go so far as to donate a kidney, work in a soup kitchen or simply hold the door open for the person behind you. However, there is one form of kindness that is hard to come by on the street today but is valued by everyone, even though they may not realise it. It is something everyone can give. It is sincere respect.
Have you ever noticed how certain people appear odd to others yet seem so wise to others? For instance, the homeless man on the street who sells tissues, only to donate the little money he managed to earn to the lady passing around a charity box. Or the old man on the bus who hardly stops talking about the importance of recycling. Or perhaps even a taxi driver. A normal taxi driver.
Yesterday, I was on my way home from school. I hailed a taxi, expecting the typical silent driver. Instead, the elderly man began a conversation, about how it was a pity that Singapore was not holding on to it's citizens, he had just dropped someone off at the airport to fly to New Zealand to live and how Singapore would soon just be another Tokyo. He then went on to mention how the house prices had risen. I did not agree with some of his views, yet here was someone who treated a secondary school girl exactly like he would have treated a high-class businessman. One might think it was just customer service, after all, he was getting paid, but you could tell that he actually enjoyed chatting.
Later, when I reached my destination, the taxi driver courteously thanked me as I paid him. I replied with "Have a nice day" and he seemed to brighten up. He said goodbye with an extra note of cheer in his voice.
Whether you are feeling sad, average or happy, a simple phrase such as "Thank you, have a nice day" truly can make your day. Sometimes a simple phrase can mean more than a bouquet of roses, a teddy bear or maybe even chocolate. Yes, it could mean even more than chocolate.
*tear, tear* *sniff* I love you darling. And your story was great.