My Good Citizen Day

I've been so wrapped up in the Inauguration Day today (haven't you?) that I was inspired to go out and be a Good Citizen.  It sort of ties in with my Random Acts of Kindness anyway, and I was in such a good mood that it didn't take any effort at all.  Here are some of the opportunities that presented themselves to me today.

I had at least four casual conversations with four different elderly people in the grocery store.  One was looking for something, and the others just looked "ripe" for a little conversation.  I really should take time to do this more often.  I always come away feeling that I have done a good deed, and I always enjoy it, too.

I had a long conversation with a mentally handicapped young woman who was eager to tell me something.  I couldn't understand much of what she was saying, and her mother (or guardian?) tried to pull her away, but I let her know that I was happy to listen.  Again, this was something I did as much for myself as for her.  She gave me a huge hug when I finally said I had to go, and I wore a happy glow for the rest of the afternoon.

Later, I "bravely" approached three young servicemen in uniform and shook their hands, thanking them for their service.  They seemed very surprised and embarrassed, but thanked me most sincerely.  I often think about doing this, but usually don't ... either because I'm in too much of a hurry, or am too shy.  I decided not to be shy anymore.

I gave a young mother with a small child my place in line at the checkout stand.  (OK, this was mostly so I wouldn't have to listen to the kid whining the whole time I was checking out ... but still!)

Oh, and I returned my shopping cart to the cart corral.  That counts too, right? 

Happy Inauguration/Good Citizen Day.