Stranger's kind words a reminder to put love into the world

The gift of unexpected words at unsuspecting times. Is there anything better? Especially when you’re feeling good — so, so good — about life? When your aura is shiny and beautiful and everything in your world is right? 

I found myself in that position a few weeks ago. Coming out of the women’s change room at one of my favourite pools. Heading down an open corridor towards the pool deck, smiling at the world, filled with the joy of being. Minding my own business.

And then, being stopped in my tracks by a gentleman with deep eyes and a kind smile.

“Excuse me,” he said. “I just need to tell you how beautiful you are! Your smile, your aura! Any man who doesn’t think you are beautiful must be blind!"

I hesitated because, truly, where does the conversation go next?

I looked around me, wondering if he was being sincere, wondering if he was actually talking to me, although he was looking right at me. There are times when I’m dressed in clothes that fit me right, hair that curls beautifully, a dash of makeup skillfully applied. Times when I may agree that the effort I’ve made with my appearance renders me worthy of a compliment like that from a stranger. My appearance at a swimming pool is never one of those times. Auburn hair pulled into two pigtails that sit high on my head. Runners, quick-dry shorts, patterned sports bra covered by a tank. Workout gear not sexy in the least, designed and worn to be active in. 

I stuttered and finally squeaked out, "Thank you." Not the thank you of a goddess accepting the compliments due to her but the thank you of a woman seriously baffled. 

“Thank you for the kind words. They are a beautiful gift and I sincerely appreciate them.” And I do. I do appreciate them. Mostly because I have gifted such words to strangers, randomly. So I understand seizing a moment and speaking kindness into the world. 

We chatted a bit more, briefly, about life. The time was inopportune for an in-depth conversation, though. And so I excused myself to hit the pool. And that’s when he shyly asked for my number. Now it’s been a while since a handsome man has asked for my number and so I laughed, charmed but hesitant. Instead, we exchanged names and I told him maybe he could have my digits someday. 

As we said goodbye, for the moment, I gave him a smile that spoke of the appreciation I had for taking a chance, for speaking his mind. 

And I went into the pool feeling good about myself and good about mankind.

I’ve seen Malik again. Quick conversations about travel and the world. He speaks multiple languages and has travelled, both physically and mentally, through books. He’s always glad to see me and I him. We exchange compliments as we exchange life stories and, although he makes a valiant effort, I still haven’t surrendered my phone number to him. My hesitation comes from his murky marital status. My heart needs protection. I’ve learned that. But one day, with the utmost clarity about what’s happening, I may agree to meet him at the cafe at the pool for a coffee after my workout. Learn a bit more about this potential new friend.

The lesson and reminder for me is to keep putting love out into the world. God knows we need it. Gift strangers compliments and random words of kindness. Tell the people I love that I love them. Don’t let opportunities go by being silent when I can spread love. Take a chance. Show love. Be love.