We often underestimate how meaningful our actions on any given day can be to others. Because we spend so much time focusing on our own lives, we easily overlook the impact we can have on those around us. That’s why it’s so important to always be kind; compassion and benevolence are timeless virtues that play an essential role in our communities.
In 2017, Joyce Rhinehart was out eating ice cream with her grandson when she saw a family sitting nearby. They were also eating ice cream and she felt a spontaneous urge to capture the moment.
In a subsequent Facebook post, Joyce said: “On June 8th, I took my grandson Blake to Rita’s Italian Ice after his tennis lesson. As we were about to leave, I saw a lovely family sitting on a bench enjoying custard waffles. Something made me ask them if I could take a photo of them…”
Joyce took the photo and gave the young girl her phone, encouraging her to send it to her family. She then explained to Blake that she often does this for families who share beautiful moments together, usually during their holidays.
A few days later, while Joyce was relaxing on her patio, she received a message from an unknown number. “This is what the message said”, Joyce said.
“Dear Madam, you took our photo in front of Rita’s on June 8th. My wife passed away yesterday and this is the last photo we have as a family. I am deeply grateful for your kindness; it means the world to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” Joyce later exchanged several messages with the man and learned that his wife had been ill for the past year.
“My heart aches for this family I don’t even know, and I am in awe of the tremendous gift they received simply because I listened to my instincts that day”, Joyce said. This touching act of kindness reminds us that we should never underestimate the profound impact even a small gesture can have on someone else’s life!