We were trying to overtake the truck when the cleaner who sits on the left signalled us to wait before overtaking. Sanjeev patiently waited till he signalled back that we could now overtake the truck.
As we passed the truck, Sanjeev waved to him. He smiled a big smile. I waved back too. And the way he smiled was so beautiful.
All along the way, he had been guiding other vehicles, allowing them to overtake, or signalling them to wait their turn. He was an old man, with missing teeth, unshaven face, and yet with a beautiful smile.
We both waving to him was such a wonderful thing. He smiled a smile that brought tears in my eyes. He was so happy to be acknowledged for the small work that he was doing. Perhaps for him it was nothing extraordinary. But to get attention for your routine work, to be acknowledged and thanked for that, was great for him. His face expressed the sincerity and truthfulness that he had. His old, wrinkled face that was full of the wisdom of so many years exuded the childlike joy that he felt when we acknowledged him.
When he waved back, it was just like waving back to his own kids, and giving them that lovely smile that makes your heart jump with joy.
Just a small effort from us was needed to make that man feel happy and loved and acknowledged. Perhaps he will remember us some day, perhaps he won't. But I will always remember that old man's blissful face. I will remember how it seemed like he was blessing when he waved back to us.
The man was certainly old, but I do wish that in the remainder of his life, he stays happy.
Just one gesture makes so much of difference in the world. World is beautiful! Let's try and make it more beautiful!
love love love this post!!!!!!! :D
ReplyDeleteloads of love to u praj! hugs..
reva :)
Dear Reva, thanks so much! :)
Deleteprajakta ! masta leehele ahes. Its really true. This is a rare thing in India that somebody acknowledges such small act . however in foreign countries its a routine practice normally followed by all the drivers. The moment somebody gives way to you , you have to acknowledge the act by waving your hand. I always wondered when people in India would learn to do that.
ReplyDeleteAnyway nice write up!
Your write ups are always pleasure to read .... keep writing...
sucheta
Thanks much, Sucheta Tai!
DeleteI know! I do that often too. It takes nothing away from us to smile or wave or thank people for the routine work that they do. Sometimes it makes their day, sometimes their smile in return makes ours. Everyone benefits from simple acts of courtesy and kindness. Oh why can't we have more of that?!!
ReplyDeleteI commented too. Your spam box gobbled mine up!
ReplyDeletePlease re-comment! :)
ReplyDelete