The waitress at our breakfast buffet comes by to pick up our empty plates. She says “I’m sorry” when approaching our table and entering our space. I want to tell her she can say “Excuse me” instead because she has nothing to be sorry for, no apology needs to be made for picking up our plates. If anything, we should apologize for making such a mess and using more than one plate. But her shy smile is so genuine and earnest, I just smile at her, letting her know she’s appreciated and valued.
Later in the day, we’re sitting in a cafe in the old town of Hoi An looking out over the river and stream of visitors and locals alike, some rushing by, some strolling. Some blending in with the flow of bicycles, mopeds, umbrellas bobbing by, some sticking out tall and awkwardly out of place (like me). Some alone, some in groups. Some with cameras aimed at fascinating sites, others with goods to sell. All humans with unique stories, joys and hardships, each vulnerable and courageous, alive at this moment in time, contemplating their next meal, their next Instagram post, their next destination, their stupid boyfriend, their lonely mother, their rent due, their uncomfortable shoes, their amazing mango smoothie at that place on the corner – over there, their itchy mosquito bites, their hard home-stay mattress, their children’s future. Yet, when I smile and nod in their direction, most smile back, genuine, kind smiles that convey a “I see you” , “thanks for noticing me” and “here I am” – all in one. In that very moment, when we connect, we understand how similar we all are – us humans. We all want to be “seen”, heard, respected, loved, smiled at. Every single one of us. And it’s such a simple understanding. Not hard at all to ‘get’ if we just slow down for a moment and breathe.
I’ve been doing a lot of that lately, slowing down, breathing and smiling at people, offering a kind word, petting an abandoned dog, helping a trapped dragon fly escape out the window, trying to lighten the load we all carry with a little humour. Wanting not to waste any opportunity to be a light instead of another obstacle on someone’s path. A simple smile.
