A Coffee Shop Hug

If our lives were compared to that of a book, we could easily read the previous chapters and reflect on them.  We would see that some chapters were sad, some were happy and some were very exciting!  We could also read the current chapter knowing that being a part of the book meant that we always had the ability to turn the page.  And, that turning the page, would allow us to have visibility to whatever the next chapter holds.  

I recently met a friend at a coffee shop.  We sat at one end of a long table and a woman sat alone at the other end.  While my friend and I were chatting, the woman was on the phone with someone and noticeably crying.  With the click of a button, she ended the call and the tears continued down her face.  At which point in time, my friend said, "excuse me", got up and went over to the woman.  

I watched the two of them chat for a few minutes and after the exchange of a hug and a piece of paper, my friend came back to sit with me and the woman left the coffee shop.  My friend explained that the woman was a recovering alcoholic and made the decision to come to the coffee shop instead of going the liquor store.  But every part of her felt despair while she sat there alone.  

My friend said that when she gave her a hug, she whispered these words into her ear, "I don't know you but I know I do not want to do life without you.  And for that reason alone, I want you to know that I love you, my friend".  The piece of paper had her phone number on it and she told her to call or text any time.  

I truly believe that my friend helped the woman turn the page in her book.  I do not know what is written on the next page of her story, but I do know that she was not alone while flipping to the next page.  I believe that our lives are interwoven stories and this is simply one example of the profound impact that kindness has on the lives of other people. 

We all Have a Story by Michelle Harverson

We all have a story, a tale to be told

of the joys we've experienced, and the hardships we've known. 

Sometimes we wear them, on our sleeves for all to see

but often they're hidden, as deep as they can be. 

So, let us be kind, for we never truly know

the struggles and the battles, that others undergo.

May empathy and compassion, be the guiding light we share

and may we always remember, that each story deserves care. 

For in our human journey, we all need love and grace

so, let us be kind to one another, and create a better place. 

Love Note: With all my heart, I genuinely request that due to the content written, please seek the guidance of professional help should you feel you need it.