I had the postal carrier ring our doorbell – which in our home means you didn’t pay something, and someone is probably very pissed. I answered the door, signed for the letter – and sighed. Inside, there was a letter from an anonymous person – saying that I had somehow touched their life and others, and they wanted me to know what a difference I had made. There was a $100 AMEX check enclosed, too. I was unable to really digest the experience, I kept reading the letter and playing the situation over, and over again. I started to research who had done it – but I figured it would be better to just accept it graciously, and return the favor. I have done many things I am proud of, and been kind to people in ways that I hope matter. There was something about the anonymous nature of this experience that resonated with me – when you are in the situation and need help, you never want to feel that you are a charity case. I have an easier time giving than receiving, and the holiday gift was a tremendous blessing.
I aspire to doing more this year, more than ever before. This time around though – I think I’m going to work harder at making the acts truly random and without reference when I can – because there is something so powerful about the hidden gesture of kindness. The money was great, but the letter will forever remind me that you never know who you might touch, or might be watching you – and it is all a blessing to behold.
