I’ve learned countless lessons from my friend June, and while one of the biggest was a life changing moment for me, another little tidbit has stuck with me for years.
It’s a small, simple moment that reveals so much about human connection.
(And shows what a a wonderful person June was.)
I was with June downtown one day when a woman asked us if we needed directions. I knew June was familiar with the area, but for some reason she politely told the woman she didn't know the way. The woman then happily gave June a detailed set of directions.
As we walked away, I asked June why she pretended not to know where we were going.
June’s answer was simple and profound: “People like to help others. It makes them feel good.”
I can still picture the scene perfectly:
June listened intently, nodding and smiling, and the woman genuinely happy to be helping, as she pointed to the direction down around the corner where we needed go. When she finished, June thanked her with a huge, grateful smile - and even a hug! They both walked away a little happier.
In that small interaction, June taught me that sometimes, the kindest thing you can do is let someone else be kind.
It’s a beautiful reminder that connection and shared joy can be found in the simplest of exchanges.
