I walked into a colleagues office yesterday, looking for envelopes when I heard her sharing a story with another.
Their conversation went something like this:
Staff Member A: I just couldn’t believe it. I got home and there were fushia flowers planted in my yard. They are absolutely gorgeous.
Staff Member B: Really. Wow! Who did it?
Staff Member A: I think I have an idea, I’m almost sure it’s my next door neighbor, but I think they want to remain anonymous. I told her earlier that I admired her lawn, but I just lacked a green thumb. So, I’m sure that it’s probably her. On Friday, I came home and all of my weeds were gone.
Staff Member B: That’s really cool. You’ve got some nice neighbors.
Staff Member A: Yeah, it is. You know I never get teary eyed and I did yesterday. I just couldn’t believe it. I want to say thank you…..I think I’m going to share the news with my other neighbors and put it in our community newsletter.
The expression on my colleague’s face was priceless, with remnants of gratitude plastered all over. She was obviously surprised, humbled and filled with disbelief, shaking her head throughout the tale.
My response was only a brief, “Wow,” with some additional thoughts. What sparked the neighbor’s desire? Why were they able to offer money, time, and labor blessing someone and so many other aren’t so willing?
I wondered if this good samaritan knew her act of kindness would be the topic of conversation for our office that morning? I wondered if she knew her act would stir so much emotion?
I imagine that genuine kindness, the kind displayed in this generous offer, isn’t flawed by expectations of gratitude or hope for acknowledgment. Maybe she had some extra plants. Or maybe she just wanted to be kind, extend a helping hand to a challenged gardner, and do what good neighbors do.
What do you think? Have you ever given a gift anonymously? Does an expectation of gratitude invalidate an act of kindness?
