Describe a random encounter with a stranger that stuck out positively to you.
DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE
Over time, a lot of strangers have helped me. Oddly enough, most of them have been women. It’s like I’ve been walking around with an invisible T-shirt that says, “I’m a Hot Mess… Please Help!” I’ve never figured out why, but I’ve stopped questioning it. Sometimes, people just show up when you need them.
One moment stands out. I was supposed to be helping my mom, but I was just running a few errands. I walked into a building where they were hosting some kind of event to promote a new internet service. The moment I stepped inside, something hit me. A wave of anxiety, confusion — I don’t even know what. I couldn’t breathe. I bolted out of the building and stood on the corner, trying to catch my breath. I lit a cigarette, hoping it would calm me down. It didn’t.
Then I saw her — a woman walking in my direction. She noticed me, stopped, and asked if I was alright. I don’t remember what I said, but she didn’t leave. She stayed and talked to me, just casual, steady conversation. Nothing deep, just enough to slow things down. She handed me a bottle of water, like she somehow knew I needed it. After a while, the tightness in my chest eased. I felt grounded again. Eventually, I thanked her and went back inside to finish the errand.
She didn’t have to stop. She didn’t have to do anything. But she did — and that kindness stuck with me.
Memoirs of Madness 