I was walking along 14th Street in New York City when I saw two older adults with canes walking in the same direction. I hastened to catch up to them, and it turned out that I knew them.

It was Claire and Teddi, both in their 90’s. 

We chatted, and when we reached the corner, their irritation was apparent because hailing a taxi was difficult due to taxis not stopping for them. Or they couldn’t get the cab in time. 

I got a cab for them. They climbed in a sort of with challenges due to their age. As I helped them, Claire and Teddi hailed me as a hero. 

I don’t think it was heroic, but to them, it was. So you never know when a little gesture can make a huge difference for someone. 

So, a little kind gesture was deeply appreciated by them. And it was an extraordinary feel moment for me too. It made me smile for the rest of the day. 

This lovely moment where I could help was on Shrove Tuesday or Fat Tuesday. My reward was pancakes, bacon, and eggs for dinner at Marble—a genuinely indulgent breakfast for dinner event. 

So often, it’s the little gestures that change a day around for others.

Shared by Carmen Matias