Sometimes, I'm obtuse. I don't mean to be, I just am. I tend to think linearly, which makes me very good at certain things...it can also lead to tunnel vision.
Today, I went through the drive-through lane at Starbucks. When it was my turn to receive my yummy treats, the barista told me they'd been paid for by the woman in front of me. I was hit by a barrage of thoughts, as well as grateful surprise. "Please," I said, "Let me pay for the person behind me." And so, I paid it forward, or backward, if we're being technical, and I simultaneously righted a past obtusity.
The first time I experienced this drive-through, coffee generosity, one of my preschool parents was ahead of me. We recognized each other, waved hello, and she paid for my coffee. It truly made my day.
The second time it happened, I didn't know the person in front of me and was stunned a stranger had purchased my coffee. It also made my day, and I was thrilled there were such kind people in the world. When I told my family about the incident, my daughter asked if I, in turn, had paid for the people directly behind me.
I immediately felt terrible--that hadn't even occurred to me! I'd been so disconcerted and surprised regarding my own order that I hadn't thought beyond it. My family teased me about breaking the chain of kindness, but today, I happily, and firmly, re-clasped it.
I don't know how the person behind me handled the chain, but based on experience, I completely understand their choice.
