Going up?

Several years ago, I was in an elevator on my way to a client meeting. On the way up, two women got on the elevator. One of the women looked kind of sad. Her shoulders were hunched, and her head was facing down. Her companion, clearly noticing that she was struggling, said a few encouraging words to her.

 諦めないで！Akiramenaide! (You can do it! Don’t give up.)

Directly after this exchange took place, the elevator arrived at my floor and I departed.

I don’t know if the words made any difference to whatever the problem was, the whole interaction lasted probably less than 10 seconds.

But it made a big difference to me and my day; I was deeply moved by the words of support and kindness. To see people being kind to each other warms my heart. It doesn’t take any time, and it doesn’t cost anything. I often think of this exchange, and it always makes me feel good. A micro-exchange that I overheard in the elevator filled me with hope and still serves as a powerful reminder: “Take more opportunities to be kind!”

Thank you, mystery elevator women!