Today, on my way back from work, I ran into a young lady staring at a map of Washington DC, obviously confused. There was a look of desperation and sadness on her face.
Nothing makes me more upset than knowing someone is sad.
I offered to help her find her way around. Her eyes lit up. “I just moved to DC yesterday and I can’t seem to figure out how this city works. You’re the first person to offer to help.”
Her name was Hannah.
We ended up going for coffee. I shared my limited knowledge of the city, she shared her story of moving from Phoenix for a new job on the Hill. I told her how to get to work. She told me about how she missed her mom, her little sister, her wallpaper in her room. I told her how to find the closest grocery store. She told me about how nervous she was starting her new job, how she was scared she wouldn’t make any friends in the city.
After our short conversation over lattes, we decided to go our separate ways. She thanked me for being “the one nice guy” in the city that was willing to help.
“Thank you so much for helping me out and making me feel less alone. You have no idea how hard it is to land in a new city and not really have anyone there for you.”
I didn’t say it, but a quick response crossed my mind:
“Trust me Hannah, I understand the feeling much more than you know. Thanks for helping me feel a little less alone today too.”
(The wonderful photo in this post was taken in McPherson Square by Zach Stern.)
I’m sort of ashamed of myself for not having had you over for dinner yet, but my place is still in quite a bit of disarray and I feel like it needs to be a bit more decluttered for first-time company. But soon! :)
This is a rockin’ post Vasta. Reminds of of what someone tried to teach me a long time ago: If you want more money - give away money. If you want more time - give someone some of your time. If you want to be loved - Give your love to someone first.
Seems to me that your “loneliness” was cured by helping someone feel a little less lonely.
Good on ya!
Cool story! Thanks for sharing.
Speaking of coffee, we should go soon.
I love that photo, too.
Wonderful post Vasta…keep them coming!!!
No need to be ashamed Shannon. I’ve been a bit of a recluse myself these days, so it has been mainly my fault. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow — and if not then, on Monday for sure!
Karim, that’s a wonderful lesson to be learned: “If you want to be loved - give your love to someone first.” So so so important to remember that. Thanks for the reminder.
Coffee sounds great Christina. We’ll stay away from the tilapia for now. =) You’ve still got my contact details right?
Rahim, thanks for the kind words. It’s comments like yours that make me want to keep sharing.
Sameer! I miss you. What are you dong in DC?
I love it there. I’ve only been once but damn is beautiful. You’re post made me smile—it’s so like you!
Loads of love,
Daniela
Hey Daniela, great to hear from you! So glad the post made you smile. It’s the least I can do to thank you for making me smile all the time. =) I’m now living and working in DC — you should come visit!