It was just towels
I was reminded today how our gifts affect others in ways we might never see (or if we're lucky, we might).
We own a condo where the association rules do not allow washers/dryers in your unit. As a result, all reasidents must use one of many common laundry rooms. It's seldom difficult to have use of the machines as the residents here are quite considerate in removing things on time. But sometimes folks forget.
I was in the laundry room this week with a neighbor that just got back from three months in France. She had a suitcase full of dirty laundry. I had my usual weekly loads. As she waited for me to empty from washers to dryers, we talked about her trip and how wonderful it is to get away. (I've never had a vacation that long, but can relate to how wonderful it would be!)
As I opened one of the dryers, somebody had forgotten their load of towels. They were new - incredible fluffy and bright white. They were cold to the touch and sat there waiting for their owner. I took out the towels, patiently folded them and stacked them on the counter. The neighbor commented, "let me know the next time you're doing laundry so I can get mine in first!" We both laughed.
Through the remaining chore of doing laundry, I didn't run into my neighbor again. And I'd forgotten to ask her name.
Today, my husband and I were taking a walk for coffee (it's 75 degrees here today and sunny) and we ran into a neighbor from our complex that we've known for quite some time. She's quite lovely and introduced me to her sister....the equally lovely lady from the laundry room! She commented, "Hope is beautiful! She folded the laundry of a complete stranger."
I was struck by how she had been moved by my simple gesture of kindness. Besides,it was just towels.
Comment
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Comment by Wendy Jo on February 24, 2010 at 7:38pm -
An unexpected act of neighborliness and kindness is a super gift. It makes everyone feel good and want to pay the kindness forward. Well done Hope!! You are an inspiration ;-)
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Comment by Deborah on February 21, 2010 at 1:20pm -
You're kind act was appreciated by your neighbor and perhaps it will inspire her to do likewise. Sounds like you made a new friend.
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Comment by Deb~ Community Manager on February 17, 2010 at 3:03am -
That's nice... You did a kind thing~
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Comment by Southernly on February 16, 2010 at 9:16pm -
I found out today that the towels belong to my next door neighbor! He thanked me for folding them. And I don't know how he found out it was me. Hmmmm!
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Comment by genuine, wwt, welcomer on February 13, 2010 at 8:40pm -
What do you mean it was just towels? Like maybe it would mean more if you were folding their socks and underwear??
: D
Lovely compliment from your neighbor, and yes, it is doing those sweet things that makes you beautiful.
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Comment by Deb~ Community Manager on February 13, 2010 at 5:39pm
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It was much more than that!
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Comment by Elizabeth on February 13, 2010 at 5:39pm -
Lovely story, thanks! I appreciate the gift of you example - kind, anonymous giving to a stranger.
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