Recently, I was struggling with a rolling suitcase on Toronto streets and public transit. I was delighted and grateful for the assistance of several warm commuters along the way. One of them carried my bag down a flight of stairs, and onto the subway.
Those who live in places with sidewalks have an opportunity to show consideration for others in a number of ways.
For example, it can be helpful when slower-moving people take the time to see who is behind them, and walk to the right, and we all appreciate it when a group is conscious not to block the whole sidewalk.
Also, when stepping from a doorway, it can be helpful when they are careful to consider the immediate foot traffic around them.
When someone is rude, it can spoil an otherwise lovely outing, and the irritated feelings can linger for hours. We can all make someone's day better, even with simple gestures.
photo by Andre Moura
In fact, how we customarily treat others on our streets sets the tone of our whole community. When we experience consideration, it encourages us to be considerate too.
Kindness can uplift us all.