Common Courtesy

"When we get too caught up in the busyness of the world, we lose connection with one another--and ourselves." -Jack Kornfield

In today's hectic, get-out-of-my-way society, we ignore each other, avoid eye contact with strangers, and forego common courtesies that were, well, common years ago. We may not intend to be too busy and narrow-minded, but it's good to remind ourselves that a simple act of courtesy can go a long way.

Just today, as I was leaving a public building, I held the door for the elderly lady behind me. "Thank you so much," she said, "I bet you didn't know that my arm bothers me and it's hard to push open doors nowadays." That simple, 20-second connection with a stranger not only provided the woman with a small physical relief, but it brightened my day mentally, too.

Connecting with one another doesn't have to be big to-do. It can be as simple as a smile to a coworker or a thank you wave to the guy who lets you get over on the interstate. Not only will you provide a moment of kinship to the other person, but you just might make yourself feel a little better, too.

~Kaye Borchers