He seemed very tired, and I imagined him running back and forth in the torrid heat all day (without air conditioning), trying to get as many rides as possible. Instead of asking him to slow down, I eased the bumps by sitting firmly without leaning against the seat.

When we arrived at my destination, I thought, “What if I offer him the water bottle I just bought?” It is unusual to offer something to the driver, but I realized it could be an act of love.

I asked if he wanted the water, and turning around with a big smile, he thanked me, “I really needed water, but I could not stop! Today is my first day back at work after an operation. I still feel weak, but I could not stay at home any longer, if I wanted to keep my job. Your water is a gift.”

I could not believe it! Both of us were recovering from surgery, somewhat in pain, and both were sharing something of ourselves. I wished him the best in his recovery, and he reciprocated.

He left, but his smile stayed in my heart. When I entered the neurology waiting room and saw so many others suffering, I knew that I had built a bridge with at least one. A simple bottle of water was enough!

— MR, New York

Source: livingcitymagazine.com