“Even in darkness, light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.” – Psalm 112:4
How do you ask for a favor when everyone around you seems distant, guarded, or irritable? It’s not easy, especially on a New York City subway. It’s crowded. It smells. It’s a jerky ride. Distrust fills the air. Regardless, my mom had to find a seat. Her back was absolutely killing her. But there was hardly any room to stand in that underground car, let alone be lucky enough to sit down.
My family was touring the Big Apple a few years ago, and we learned the subway was the only realistic way to get around Manhattan. Taxis will charge $10 to go two blocks – and you could waste an entire day of vacation fighting traffic in your own car. But as I watched my mom look around for a seat to relieve the back pain, I would have paid for a helicopter ride. It was too late we were packed in like sardines.
I quickly looked from person to person, hoping to make eye contact with a Good Samaritan; somebody who might give up their seat. That guy? No, he just glared at me. How about the man in the suit? No, he saw me and looked the other way. How about her? No, she has headphones on. What about that woman? No, I don’t think I should even ask her what time it is.
Then I noticed a young man who also fell into the category of “probably wouldn’t give up their seat.” A lot of chains, tattoos, and attitude. But he saw my mom struggling to hang on to the subway pole, and stood up. No one asked him to help out. My mom saw him look in her direction – then he glanced back at his seat. He didn’t say a word.
“Thank you so much,” she said as she made her way past him, sat down, and exhaled in relief. He didn’t respond. I wanted to make sure he heard our appreciation. “Thank you for giving up your seat for my mom. I really appreciate it.” He just kept staring straight ahead. The subway is awfully loud. I said it again. Still nothing. I’ll try again. “Hey man, thank…”
He gave me a quick look that indicated he heard me the first time – and didn’t want me to say another word. I guess some people don’t think it’s cool to be kind. That didn’t matter. His rough exterior couldn’t contain his heart. Lord knows what he’s been through. Life can make us want to build barriers. But God’s love can always break them down. No words necessary.
Ed Doney, Staff Writer
