How One Woman Changed My Whole Mind Set

Hey Everyone!  

I thought I would share something with you that really inspired me and opened my heart and eyes today.  Driving through Erie, I saw a homeless woman holding a sign saying she had lost everything.  It was  bitter cold and she looked freezing.  Initially I was skeptical, "she must be a drug addict" is the first thing that came to my mind.  With that in mind I drove right past her without blinking an eye.  Then a thought hit me.  Just because of a stereotypical belief towards the homeless was I going to pass this woman by?  Did I even have to give her money, or would a simple act of kindness inspire her to get back on her feet, knowing that there were still people who care?  With this in mind I turned around and sped toward the nearest walmart and wegmans.  I grabbed everything I thought I would want if i were in need: fruit; sandwiches, rinks, hygienic products, warm clothes, whatever.  I packed this all into a carry on bag I had in my trunk, and drove towards where she was huddling on the sidewalk.  As i got out of the car with the bag and walked towards her, I can not even express the look on this woman's face.  She was in tears and as I gave her a hug she asked me why I was doing this.  I told her that I have been through difficult situations in my life and wouldn't have made it through ha it not been for those who were willing to help me.  I was just passing on the kindness I know I woul want to receive.  As I rove away, the immense feeling of happiness I received from this experience seemed to overtake me.  I'm not sharing this to pat myself on the back or to portray myself as some sort of saint, because I have passed these people by countless times before.  I wanted to share this because I feel if we all took the time to do something small for those in need; even something as small as a hug and encouragement that everything will be alright, It will not only make a difference for those we help, but it will change an open our hearts as well.  I asked God to allow another opportunity such as this to happen again, because it was truly one of the best experiences he has ever blessed me with. This truly inspired me, and I hope it inspires you as well.  Hugs! -Bri :)