Jamario Howard shared a special message on Facebook last week. He and his friends ensured a lonely Alabama woman wouldn't have to eat alone.
In the Facebook post, Howard notices the woman eating by herself. He goes over and talks with her.
What she said, changed his night.
The Facebook post reads:
"So tonight JaMychol Baker Tae Knight and myself went out to eat at this place called Brads in Oxford, and after us sitting there a while waiting on our food i noticed an elderly woman sitting alone."
"My exact thoughts was "dang I'd hate to have to eat alone". So after thinking about it a minute i walked over to her and asked if i could sit with her."
"She said yes and we talked for a minute and after a while of talking she told me she lost her husband and that tomorrow would have been their 60th anniversary. I instantly gave my condolences and asked her to come eat with us, which she was excited to do."
"The point in this is always be kind and be nice to people. You never know what they are going through. This woman changed my outlook on life and how i look at other people."
"Everyone has a story so do not judge! And people i can't stress this enough. GO SEE YOUR MOM AND YOUR GRANDPARENTS. They miss you!!"
The post seemed to strike a chord on Facebook. Many users commented with their compliments and thankfulness at being reminded of how powerful kindness can be.
It's a little overwhelming.
Others took the time to share their own stories. Whether it was a time they showed compassion to someone else, or someone else showed compassion to them, these acts do not exist in a vacuum.
They really affect whoever receives this kindness.
There isn't much more to say. Hopefully this story will remind you of how easy it is to make someone feel special. And how important.
And, as Howard said, go see your parents or grandparents. They really do miss you.