What looks like a disaster often works out for the best.

I went to a coin machine that counts your coins and when I put them in, the machine stopped working. I was embarrassed and worried that I had broken the machine. The woman who was responsible for it said not to worry it just ran out of paper to print a receipt.
So while she was loading it with a new roll of paper another customer wanted to use it as well. To pass the time I was making small talk with him and he shared that he had cancer. I listened as he talked for a while, and so surprised at his openness and willingness to share.
The machine got fixed and he was able to put in his coins and take care of business. I said bye and started to walk away. The woman who was responsible for the machine thanked me for distracting him and was grateful that I was there.
Isn’t it strange how in life we think that we might be causing a problem, but really we are part of the best possible solution? The guy who shared about his cancer was being treated and was ok now, but he needed someone to listen. Did it cost me anything to listen to him? No. Did it bother my day? Not at all. If anything I felt more grateful and happy that I am healthy. Did the woman appreciate it? Yes. So often what we do affects so many people in ways we don’t even realize.
Do we realize how often people just need to be listened to and not judged? I see every day that when I have listened, it has helped people’s moods, ideas, and life. Not judging their life allows them to grow and it often helps you as well. I felt good after that experience, and it was because I am open to it and allow life to teach me. What do you want life to teach you?