One day last week I was working my way towards the E train at Penn Station. It had been tough morning. I was running late and everything had fought with me. I walked out of my house without my keys -- which made me miss my train -- the train I did catch was running late and crowded. We all know that kind of morning. It doesn’t usually bode well for the rest of the day.

Just as I was reaching the E Train, I walked by another commuter and we caught eyes. She smiled and said, “I’ve been admiring your dress. I really like it.”

That small act of kindness completely turned my day around. My grumpy start evaporated right there in that moment.

“Thank you,” I said in response. “You just made my day”. We smiled at each other and continued along with our respective days.

It felt great to be the recipient of that random act and it was a personal reminder of how powerful a smile and a kind word can be.

[And PS, how about that eclipse today! Anyone want to make a date for 2024?]