Act of Kindness #24

It has become a bit of a new tradition for me. As I leave New York City from JFK International Airport, I give away whatever leftover subway passes I have. Yesterday as I passed through the gate for the AirTrain I handed my remaining weekly unlimited ride pass to one of the people heading into the city. It often confuses people, and since it is New York, you can see them trying to figure out if it's a scam. But I just tell them how much is left, tell them to enjoy, and head on my way. It's a good way to start out a trip.

Act of Kindness #23

Being handicapped in New York City means that you are uh-ma-zing! In such a challenging city for even an able-bodied person, I am always blown away when I see someone with physical limitations navigating these mean streets!
Now, everyone knows that that fastest way to get around in New York is the Subways, and though there are a few stations that are handicap accessible, someone who is handicapped still must rely on the kindness of others to use them.
On Friday, I almost went on my way, before I realized this. A woman in a wheelchair was waiting outside of the turnstiles for the emergency exit to be opened. (It must either be opened from the inside or buzzed open by the station attendant. But he was pre-occupied. . . and even then, it is very difficult for a wheelchair bound person to pull open the heavy iron doors. ) I noticed in time, went back and held open the door. The rockstar went by in her wheelchair and I just admired. I hope if I am ever challenged physically that I will meet the challenge head on like her!

Act of Kindness # 18

Today is my birthday! I am 28 years old. Whew! Time flies when you are having fun!

Thank you to everyone who has sent me videos, sung me songs, sent me messages and spread some serious kindness in my life today!!
I am so grateful!

I arrived in New York pretty early this morning, and as I made my way around the city with my luggage in tow. . . I had to go straight from the airport to rehearsal.

While waiting for the subway, a woman seemed to be confused. I asked her if she needed help, and was able to give her good directions to get on her way.

And then I was on my way.

HEART, MIGHT, MIND AND STREGTH

This week, though a tough week, was also a great week.
And one of my favorite moments came on Wednesday night as my roommate and I rode the train home after a planning meeting for our forthcoming cabaret.
We were riding a rather bouncy 1 train home, and Jen wasn't holding on to a bar.
She wobbled a bit, and after a really big bump, an elder black man reached his arm out to steady her.
He kept her from taking a tumble and remained posed and ready to catch her again for the rest of the ride home.

In a city like New York, where men on trains are so often sleezy in taking advantage of the crowded subway conditions, it is such a welcome surprise to find someone who automatically reaches out to help without making us feel threatened.
It's the little moments like these that restore my belief in the chivalry and the existence of true gentlemen.