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Writer's picturePatricia Waxler

The Kindness of Strangers: A Spark in the Darkness

We live in a world that often feels cold and impersonal. News cycles are dominated by negativity, social media fosters comparison and judgment, and the daily grind can leave us feeling isolated and alone. Yet, amidst this, there exists an undeniable force – the kindness of strangers.


It’s a seemingly small act – a helping hand, a warm smile, a thoughtful gesture – that can ripple through our lives, leaving an impact far greater than we could ever imagine.


Years ago when traveling in a foreign country we inadvertently got off at the wrong train stop. It was desolate save for one elderly woman, sitting alone on a bench amongst her many parcels. Not speaking each other’s language, she did her best to communicate to us how to get where we needed to go. After a few minutes of frustration on all our parts, she stood up, left her belongings on the bench and physically walked us the near quarter mile to where we need to be to get back on the right path. Grazie senora!


More recently we travelled to Baton Rouge, Louisiana for the UCLA vs LSU football game. While the actual game was a disappointment for Bruin fans, the highlight was an adorable young LSU family taking pity on four UCLA fans sitting on out of the way benches a few hours before the game. We came to tailgate but did not really have a plan or provisions. They stopped to say hello on the way back to their tailgate and graciously invited us [the enemy!] to join them and their friends. We followed them to their deluxe set-up, met their many friends and shared in all the local delicacies [grillades and grits, anyone?] Moreover, they wouldn’t take a penny from us despite our indulgence in all their offerings. Geaux Tigers!


How can the kindness of strangers impact the workplace?

Imagine this: You're a fresh-faced new employee, navigating the unfamiliar territory of a new office. You're feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety, a little lost in the sea of faces and procedures. Then, a seasoned colleague approaches you, a warm smile on their face. "Welcome to the team!" they say, offering you a steaming cup of coffee and a friendly introduction to your new coworkers.

This simple act of kindness, the offer of a coffee and a welcoming smile, can have a profound impact on a new employee. It signifies that they are valued, that they are part of a community, and that they are not alone in their new journey.


I've seen this firsthand in my own [former] workplace. A young man working with the American Red Cross in a different role in Northern California wanted an LA experience before beginning a formal nursing program. As it so happened, one of my supervisors was going on a planned extended medical leave and I needed someone to temporarily oversee her team, as well as supervise blood drives in her absence. And so it came to pass that Kevin joined my team - a happy occurrence for all, including Kevin. Each supervisor on my team took him under their wing, teaching them what they knew, sharing their expertise, or simply lending an ear to listen. These seemingly small gestures can make a big difference in the life of a new employee, helping them feel valued, connected, and empowered to contribute to the team.


The generosity, the collective kindness my group of supervisors demonstrated to this virtual stranger made all the difference in his brief stint in Southern California. To watch his growth during the 6 months he was “ours” was a revelation- he went from shy and unsure to confident and inspired, and I like to think this transformation was, in part, due to the care and kindness his fellow supervisors flooded him with. The simple act of taking the time to explain, to empathize, and to support, made a world of difference. It empowered Kevin to feel equipped and valued, boosting his morale and helping him excel in his new role.


I also think “raising Kevin” solidified my existing team even further; that this joint “project” forged a tighter bond among them, creating a even more high-performing team.


The kindness of strangers at work is not just about making someone feel welcome. It's about building trust, fostering a sense of belonging, and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. The impact of kindness is not limited to the individual who receives it. It inspires, it uplifts, it creates a chain reaction of positive energy. It reminds us of the good that exists in the world, and it empowers us to pay it forward.


So, the next time you encounter a colleague, new or otherwise, consider the power of kindness. A smile, a helping hand, a welcoming word – these small acts can create a ripple effect of positivity, fostering a workplace where everyone feels supported and appreciated.


Today is November 13, 2024: World Kindness Day.

How can we make kindness the cornerstone of our work culture, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every member of the team?


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