I had entered the plane seeking only solitude, unwilling to engage or acknowledge the world around me. Yet, the soft, pained breaths of the woman behind me stirred something unexpected: empathy. She bore her unease with silent strength, never asking for help, but her presence demanded recognition. That moment unveiled how often we overlook the silent struggles of others in our pursuit of self-interest.
When the wheels touched down, I carried with me a profound realization. Kindness isn’t just grand acts or spoken words—it is the quiet awareness of others’ needs, the gentle pause to offer space and understanding. Since then, I’ve chosen to journey not just through places but through people’s lives with open eyes and an open heart.
