It is true—we often do not understand the value of goodness unless something bad happens. There have been days when I have met some of the kindest people. I might never have realized it fully, but one incident of someone being rude to me made me pause and reflect on all the quiet kindness I have received. 

One day, I was standing at the side of a busy road, too fearful to cross. A gentleman standing on the opposite side noticed my hesitation. Without me asking for help, he stepped forward, walked toward me, and said gently, “Let’s cross the road.” He crossed with me and made sure I reached safely. I thanked him and walked away, but the impact of that small gesture stayed with me. He helped without expectation, without hesitation. That moment reminded me how even the simplest act of kindness can leave a lasting impression.

On another day, it was my first visit to my new corporate office building. Everything felt unfamiliar, and I didn’t know whom to approach for help. I must have looked confused, because someone noticed. Before I could gather the courage to ask, he said, “I will help you out.” He guided me patiently. It was such a small thing, yet it made my first day less intimidating and far more welcoming.

Then there was a day in Colaba, Mumbai. I was walking down the street when a shopkeeper called out to me and handed me a pink rose. I offered to pay for it, but he refused. He said it was simply a gesture of respect and complimented me that I looked good. That unexpected kindness filled my heart with warmth. It made my day brighter in ways I cannot fully explain.

These moments taught me something important: love and kindness exist everywhere. Sometimes, we just need to slow down and notice them. A small gesture can carry immense meaning. And to this day, I feel proud to carry myself with standards and boundaries that people respect and respond to with care.

I’ve been skipping writing lately, and that’s because it’s been a very long time since I’ve traveled anywhere or met new people like me. I’m looking forward to exploring new things. Writing down my thoughts truly makes me happy, but like every human, I instinctively crave connection with others.

Recently, I visited Connaught Place in Delhi with my cousin. Although I enjoyed the visit, I wanted to explore somewhere new. My cousin and I walked and walked, earphones in, listening to music. I felt like dancing on my toes but couldn’t—there were people around. Sometimes, it feels good just to observe your inner child giggling.

We went to various shops and tried on dresses I liked. When you’re with certain people, you have the liberty to waste as much time as you want. My cousin and I are like that—we spend every moment trying to enjoy ourselves.

We decided to try something spontaneous: we walked into a restaurant where we heard someone singing and playing the guitar. We were a bit hesitant at first, as it was quite expensive. The only thing we could afford was water. Without complaining, we walked out innocently after telling the waiter the prices were too high for us.

I occasionally eat out because I’ve always been told to eat healthy, and eating outside often makes me feel sick. So, we decided not to eat anything and continued walking down the city streets.