It never fails that when I’m in line at Costco with a double-wide full of everything I don’t need, some guy is patiently standing behind me with three packages of flan. So I step aside.
My definition of purgatory. Image via homelyplanet.com
I’m always surprised at how appreciative people are when I let them go first, but when I think about it more deeply, I realize that I’m always rushing, pressed for time, often trying to fit way too much into a day that simply can’t stretch beyond the bounds of a ticking clock. And so is everyone else.
When you give up space, you’re literally telling someone that for the moment you consider their needs more important than yours. It’s such a simple connection point and serves as a tangible way to tell somebody, often a stranger, that they matter.
So for Day Three I’m asking you to let someone else go first. Whether it’s a spot in line, a parking space at the mall, or simply pausing to let the person behind you walk through the door ahead of you, give it a try. It’s a kindness that costs next to nothing, and you’ll find that the reward is truly worth the wait.
I, Gemini Girl, have interrupted my non-existent programming to bring you the 25 Days of Giving Challenge. Please join me in my quest, over the next 25 days, to make people happy. I’ll share stories of giving escapades that will be sure to wow, delight, or at least not annoy anyone who chooses to participate. Each Day of Giving will be conveniently brought to you via email if you follow this blog. And if you’re already a follower? Pass it onto your friends. If we work together we can change the world, or at least dramatically improve my hit ratio.
READING BETWEEN THE PINES 
Something this simple can change someone’s day.
Well said, Suzette. Thank you!
I do hold doors for people sometimes, and let people out of driveways they might not ever get out of if someone doesn’t let them, but the line thing is where I tend to be a little more selfish and I guess it’s cause I am so often in a hurry with not enough hours in the day. But you are right, if we can spare the few extra minutes it is a very sweet thing to do that costs almost nothing. 🙂 So I will think about that the next time that opportunity presents itself. 🙂
Keep doing what you’re doing Dani. This challenge will be a piece of cake for you. =)
I love this one – and I don’t do it often enough. Thanks, STacie!
Thank YOU Stella!
Another great suggestion. As one thinks how often we go to the grocery, oh many opportunities we have there to let someone go ahead of us … especially if they only have a couple of items.
Thanks for playing along, Frank, and for taking the time to comment. =)
… (I forget this from yesterday) ….. and thank you Stacie for identifying for my your campus of choice. … (see .. I acknowledged in a nice way)
Oooh this is going to be a difficult one for me! I’m always too much in a rush and I’m often the one with little in my hand stuck behind someone with a ton of stuff – or can’t find their money or something…