I have always believed that people want to be helpful to one another. While we all know of a few individuals, who would never offer even the most miniscule assistance to anyone, they are the exception rather than the rule. People want to help. They also want to be treated with respect, as they do their jobs. That respect is another gift that will be returned ten fold from other people.
Travel columnist Robert Cowan, the Internet Travel Guru of the travel website Internet Travel Tips had just scuh an experience. In his most recent Internet Travel Tips Newsletter, Robert recounts how showing courtesy and respect for airline employees resulted in their offering him a gift of kindness.
As Robert says in his newsletter:
Be nice to people: On United Airlines, my status is somewhere between cardboard and plastic, however I spoke with a gate agent about finding a better seat. A little light banter about how they were doing (still in bankruptcy) and a smile can go a long way. Fortunately, the mid-day flight was only 60% full (unusual) and the agent gave me an entire row near the front of the plane in their economy+ section (more leg room). In most cases, airline employees rarely hear good news. Being nice and pleasant (especially during a challenging day) can have rewards.
In a world where rudeness is becoming more commonplace, and common courtesty appears to be disappearing from daily discourse, showing kindness and respect is a welcomed event. Brightening a person's day with courtesy and the offer of a friendly, helpful hand, will be repaid many times over.
Even if that payment is only a smile, it's well worth being generous and helpful to others. Brightening someone else's day will definitely brighten your day, making everyone's passage through life a much more pleasant journey.
Show someone some kindness and generosity today. Help someone do their job better, achieve their goal, or simply bring a smile to their face.
It will be great for everyone; including yourself.
