The Kindness of Strangers

Henri J.M. Nouwen’s prayer*, that I posted a few days ago, came to mind when I was cruising on the Pacific Ocean one afternoon. I had some free time and decided I wanted to get out on the water. I booked a coastal cruise. There was an additional fee to get on the upper deck, which I decided to pay… I did have a coupon so that covered the extra cost. I’m glad I chose that option. I was the only one up on the deck. There were twenty-six friends in the main enclosed deck below. They were having a good time. But I was blessed to be on top.

It was amazing to see the SEA and reflect on Nouwen’s prayer. The ocean is unfathomable and incomprehensible. When one is looking out over the vastness of the water, towards the horizon it seems never ending… as Henri compared it to the never ending love of God.

“O Lord, [you are the] sea of love and goodness” (*Nouwen’s prayer).

“Out of your love I came to life, by your love I am sustained, and to your love I am always called back.” (*Nouwen’s prayer).

I was feeling a little vulnerable from all that’s happening in life right now, so when many kindnesses were shown to me on this cruising adventure, I teared up. 

To begin with, the ticket taker was friendly and warm, and engaging (I was first in line). 

I boarded the yacht and immediately went up to the upper deck. One cheery crew member came right up to greet me and hand me a menu. She came back a little while later to take my order, but I didn’t order anything.

A bit later, I was sitting on the top deck by myself, and the captain came out and started a conversation with me. He was interested in my story. He was so kind.

Again later, the cheery crew member came back to check on me. She wondered if the music was too loud (it was a bit – so she turned it down). Then she started to chat with me, and showed a genuine interest in me, that I found endearing.

That afternoon boat ride was a wonderful reminder of the power of kindness, and the sea was a beautiful reminder of God’s love.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” Leo Buscaglia

“Kindness can transform someone’s dark moment with a blaze of light. You never know how much your caring matters. Make a difference for another today.”  Amy Leigh Mercree