Today I chose to venture into London for a relaxing massage and rolfing appointments. In the past, my journey was quite simple: tube from Essex to London. But since I have moved house, it’s more complicated. Do I choose to drive one hour away to my old home, park, and then take the hour tube ride? Or do I opt for the two hour costly train ride, with a transfer.
Since I was going for the relaxation and pamper effect today, I opted for the train. I was paying for the luxury of the train, I could write and read while having loads of space as I ventured into the city. But as I got on board the second train, I wondered if I made the wrong decision. The coaches were extremely packed with people. It was standing room only. I questioned if this was the right decision, or if I should have even gone to London today. Despite this, I would make the most of it. I continued to read silently.
Luck entered my life, a woman next to me was getting off at the upcoming Cambridge stop. She offered me her seat. I gladly took it, and was filled with gratitude. She didn’t have to mention it to me. Me and the fellow passengers would have fought like vultures for her space. But I didn’t have to fight. A spot was made available for me, and I accepted. It’s interesting the smallest act of kindness can bring such joy into our lives.
I appreciated having somewhere to sit and a tiny bit of personal space, on the remaining hour long train ride. It’s so often we take things for granted, but one act of warmth by a stranger can deeply impact the rest of our day. In return, I offered her a gratitude card.
I listened on the train as somehow laughter emerged throughout the tight journey. People could easily react with frustration for having to stand during an expensive long train ride, next to strangers, with little room to move. The overcrowded train ride was unexpected for everyone, but somehow overall people’s spirits remained light. Two more people were getting off the train, a nearby passenger voiced this aloud to the crowd. He wasn’t going to take the seat, but it was available for anyone who needed it. People joked of their competitiveness of wanting these seats, but nobody ran for them. Everyone seemed to enjoy the journey as much as they could. It was Saturday after all. Why not embrace the moment for what it is?
When we arrived at Kings Cross, someone shouted, “have a good day everyone.” The crowd cheered. Several others yelled have a good day. And then we were all off on our own separate ways.
It may be normal to send out to the world negative internal vibes of frustration, particularly during moments of traffic or rush hour during the week. One can generally sense hurriedness, excess hyped up energy, and pushiness. Yet in this same manner, we can send out blessings to fellow passengers on our journeys. We can make the most of right now.
Perhaps it’s simply a Saturday vibe mentality, which is not too far off that vacation state of mind. Since we are free from work responsibilities and expectations, we can let loose, slow down, and find joy. I appreciate everyone who rode on the train with me today for making it a pleasant and memorable journey. Kindness and warmth is truly contagious…
It Only Takes A Smile 