# A Bit of Kindness By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2024-07-31 During a recent trip, a guidebook encouraged going on a tour given by a resident. So, upon arrival, my wife and I talked to a random local providing tours in his old red minivan. The tour guide was in his 70s and lived in the area his entire life. He was also very chatty and authentic, so we jumped in the van with several other tourists and went off. The tour was great; we learned many facts, but that didn't define the experience. What defined the experience were all the little things he mentioned and authentic expressions of ideas and opinions about the changes in the area. I understood more of what this place was like in solidarity with the locals. At the furthest point away from the city center, we jumped out and walked around to see the sites. When we loaded back up for the return trip, a backpacking tourist asked our tour guide if they could get a ride back to the city. As there was an open seat, the tour guide said, "Sure, jump on in." As we approached the backpacker's stop, they asked how much they owed the tour guide for the ride. The old man, who had clearly had a rough but authentic life, said, "You owe me nothing. I'm happy to do it." The backpacker attempted to insist but left very grateful. As the tour guide continued, he said, "Sometimes you got to do a bit of kindness as it makes all the difference." Could this tour guide make an additional $5 or $10? Sure, but he was already going that way, had the space, and it meant something to him to provide this person with kindness. As I reflect on this moment, I'm sure it will be what I remember from the experience. Years from now, it won't be the scenery or local sites, but the phrase: Sometimes you have to do a bit of kindness as it makes all the difference. When one is authentic and in solidarity with others, bits of kindness emerge, and the world becomes a better place. #### Related Items [[Kindness]] [[Solidarity]] [[Authenticity]] [[Reflection]] [[Memory]] [[Progress]] [[Travel]]