Homeland Security Surprise - Chapter One: Marriage and Surprises-

I am sure many of us have airport stories to share - especially if you have gone through customs.   When reading about the interaction between Felipe and Tom, the Homeland Security officer there were several things that stood out to me, but none other more than the kindness of the human spirit shown through this "stranger".

At this point they were referring to each other on a first-name basis, and there was some empathy being shared, whether spoken or unspoken.

I am reminded of my daughters own recent airport story where this unexpected, but very welcome, kindness was also shown.  My daughter attendend college overseas right after high school, met a man from that country, married and that brings us here now - 10 years later.  Some major problems were brewing and she needed to leave in a hurry, packed 2 bags, a carry on and headed to the airport for the long journey home.  

At her second check point she needed to collect her bags, run through the London Heathrow terminal and catch her next flight leaving in 20 minutes.   She had just enough money to make it home and she was going to be charged a very hefty amount for 2 overweight bags.  The manager was doing her job and was very adamant and strict about these charges.   My daughter was explaining to her that she had to leave quickly and her whole life was in those 2 bags and it was imperative she catch that next flight home - all the while just hoping and praying that there would be some kind of softening of this woman's spirit.  There was!  As she was tagging her bags she softly said she would only charge her a portion of what should have been paid.  What a relief - and she did make her flight and get home safely.

She had to come so quickly that we didn't even know she was here until she was here, so we were unaware of any of this at the time.  But I loved hearing about that same kind of empathy and kindness shown even after a few minutes instead of several hours as it had been with Felipe and Tom.

How about you?  When have you experienced that unexpected kindness of a stranger?  The kind that left you encouraged and eager to pass it on.