From the archives: This story was last updated in April 2019.
Kindness is here, kindness is there. Kindness is in fact everywhere.What struck this quiet observer first was how considerate the bus driver was.
When a man in a mechanical wheelchair boarded the bus, “the bus driver took his time with him and spoke to him, asking where his stop was and ensuring the man was comfortable,” the passenger wrote.
That man in a wheelchair got off a few stops later. That seemed all dandy, but here’s what impressed the passenger the most.
It was at a later stop that a homeless man, who had his belongings piled atop his wheelchair, boarded the bus.
The bus driver set up a wheelchair ramp for the man and folded up some seats in the designated wheelchair area of the bus so this man could sit securely.
Seeing the state of the man and his belongings, “a woman says to the driver: ‘Sir, I don’t think that is very sanitary.’”
At this, the homeless man looked sad and embarrassed.
“The driver looks at the woman and says calmly ‘Ma’am, with all due respect, I’m not going to force this man to lose the only belongings he has just because he needs to get somewhere safely.’
“The whole bus went silent as he finished strapping the wheelchair down and continued on our route.”
Gratitude arose in the heart of this anonymous observer, who expressed a genuine desire—after being inspired by this experience—to be kind to others too.
“I will never forget that bus driver who was so kind to those who needed kindness,” concluded the passenger.
As much as the thoughtful bus driver is the highlight of this story, Facebook user Alice Schaefer shared her refreshing perspective on the lady who made the inappropriate comment on board the bus.
“I pray that God forgive that woman and fill her heart with love & Kindness, that she may be humbled next time!” she wrote.
Schaefer’s was the top comment for the story, receiving more than 400 likes.
In response to Schaefer’s comment, one user wrote, “I am so thankful to see your response—so positive.”
Another added, “The truest measure of kindness is when you extend it to those who do not deserve it.”
It’s not only fantastic to learn of people dutifully going about their roles in society, like the bus driver, but it’s a breath of fresh air to see Schaefer’s comment of forgiveness and hope for the other lady.
