Random kindness

We rarely help strangers out of stinginess. It is awkwardness — the fear that the help is not needed and we will look silly.

Walk slower than usual today and actually look around — most situations where a second pair of hands is needed, we simply fly past. Look for something specific: a pram in front of stairs, a dropped bag, someone who cannot reach the top shelf, a bike lying across the pavement. Do not shout do you need help from across the street — walk up and offer one concrete action: let me carry that up. If they say no, say fine and leave without taking it personally. One case a day is enough.

What was going on in you during the seconds before you walked over?