I was on the subway, when two big handsome black guys sat down beside me.

They were chatting pleasantly in what seemed to me to be an African language. I was enjoying their wam enthusiasm.

It occurred to me that maybe, occasionally, their exchanges with some people in the city might not be pleasant. I thought I might add some extra cheer to their day.

The one seated closest to me was wearing a beautiful white hoodie. As I got up to leave, I said "I love your hoodie. My son wants one like that. He's a nice big guy like you."

They both beamed at me as I left the train.