Train Conversations
“My goal in life is to be a kind person! With me now being 28, and knowing life is short, why wouldn’t I want to spread as much kindness as possible?” This was said during a conversation with a man I was not supposed to be sitting next to, on a train from Melbourne to Horsham that I wasn't supposed to be on. As a result of changed plans and an earlier train trip, this was the case though.
As the conductor checked our tickets, an opening to a conversation occurred. “Oh, you’re heading to Horsham too. I’ve never met, let alone seen you before.” Funny how the world works sometimes! It wasn’t long until I found out this kind man’s name was Siam and for nearly two hours, we chatted continuously.
“My father also taught me to never see the world as a loser, but only a winner, no matter the circumstance” Siam said. He and his father did anything they could to help people in need. If people asked for support, he gave it. If people asked for money, he gave it and he was often repaid in many different ways.
If Siam didn't get his money back, he didn't focus on losing money. Instead, he focused on winning, because he had been in a position to help someone. The warmth, kindness and generosity came through in everything he shared, and he spoke about the benefits it had brought to his own life.
The jobs he had received had often been through word of mouth. When visiting Melbourne, he didn't need to pay for accommodation because friends were only too happy to offer Siam a bed. What also stood out was the kindness with which he spoke about his work colleagues and everyone he had come into contact with. Throughout the whole two hours, I don't remember him speaking unkindly of anyone. The benefits of being kind surely outweigh anything money can buy.
As we both reached our destination, we swapped phone numbers. “I write a fortnightly column in the local paper,” I said, “and I'd love to write about the kindness you are sharing.” “Let's catch up again in person,” he said, “and see how many more kindness messages we can share.”
Who knows what conversations you can have when you share a smile with a stranger sitting next to you. I have more content for the newspaper column, and he has a chance to share his goal of being kind too. We are both winners!
So next time you're on a journey somewhere, why not smile and see what conversation evolves. You might just find yourself so engrossed in conversation that you forget anyone else is with you on the journey.
