Today, while waiting for the dentist to open their doors, as I had a 2pm appointment, a lady in perhaps her late 30s approached and spoke a few words in slightly broken English to me.
I initially surmised she perhaps wanted to practice English with me. To my surprise, she said: "I'm hungry. Can you please give me some coins?"
I couldn't help but notice the odor of somebody who hadn't showered in God knows how long. She donned a plain coat that seemed a little dirty. She not only seemed a bit embarrassed to ask me for money, she looked worn out. But, she still tried to keep a pleasant expression on her face in her interaction with me.
I didn't think giving her a few coins would help, so I asked her: "How about I buy you a bento box for lunch? There's a Formosa Chang restaurant on the other side of the road. How's that?"
She felt a bit embarrassed and said I didn't have to do that. I insisted, so she thanked me and followed me across the road, dragging an old shopping cart with her.
Before arriving, she told me she has diabetes. Lacking clarity on dietary restrictions for individuals with diabetes, I encouraged her to choose whatever her body could accommodate. She picked up the menu and selected two items. I can't read Chinese characters very well, so I'm not sure what she ordered. But, I was worried she hadn't ordered enough. She was too polite, even when she was so hungry. I told her, order more. The main thing is you fill your stomach. She picked an additional item. I asked her if she wanted a drink, but she said no need.
I paid the money and asked her where she wanted to sit. She picked a quiet spot, her back facing the door. I told her, I need to now see the dentist. I had brought extra money for the dentist, because I don't have health insurance, and I know it'd cost me extra. However, I felt she needed money more than me, so, with both hands, I gave her an additional $300 NTD, and said with a smile, "enjoy your meal." She seemed unable to speak at that moment, but she gratefully accepted the money with both hands outstretched, and bowed her head. I think she was so tired, but I could tell she felt most appreciative. I left and went back to the dentist. The dentist opened their metal roller door soon after I arrived. (They re-open right at 2pm after lunch break).
To be honest, there's not much in this world that can make me feel as good as I did at that moment... it was truly a blessed feeling that comes from a wholly altruistic act, an act completely for another person without the slightest personal motivation.
When the lady in the dentist's office told me I needed to pay NTD $4,400 (approx. US $142) after my appointment, I was suddenly concerned I didn't have enough money. I don't have a bank card either. But, fortunately I had just enough. I had exactly NTD $100 (approx. US $3) remaining after paying. Everything worked out perfectly.
I originally didn't intend to tell anybody of my experience. But, I later told my wife about my encounter with the lady. She encouraged me to share this short story online. I said, "It's not necessary." Because, I don't want to validate myself. Heaven has eyes, and that's enough. But she said, by sharing your experience online you can encourage others to act with kindness. I thought that was a good enough reason, and hence I've written my experience.
That night, I prayed that the lady be OK and have a bright future. I believe finding enough food to eat each day, and staying warm in winter, must be a daily challenge for her.
I hope the people of this world, regardless of who you are and where you live, keep compassion in your heart. Complain less and broaden your heart. Everybody has their own challenges, and we can make life perhaps a little bit better for everyone if we all cultivate this beautiful energy that is compassion.
Thank you Ganjing World for providing this platform to share stories of kindness.
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[Note: The thumbnail image accompanying this article features the Formosa Chang restaurant where the encounter unfolded, distinguished by its yellow vertical sign. I captured this photo moments before her arrival, because I found the name of the adjacent shop slightly peculiar. Little did I realize it would serve as a poignant memento of this experience.]
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