It’s been a very interesting week here in Chicago. A few days ago, I was about to take my usual train to a location that is approximately one hour from our area. Upon approaching the train station, I noticed a bus nearby. That particular bus also travels in the direction I was heading, but rarely do I take it. For reasons unbeknownst to me at that moment, I found myself walking up and onto the bus! Okay, I’ll go with it and see what the day brings. Traveling by train or bus in Chicago can afford you the time to listen to your favorite music, stare out the window, read, or simply ‘veg’ as my mother likes to say when relaxing.
I was listening to my IPod (yes, I still use one of those!) when there was a slight pause before the next song started. We were at a bus stop, when all at once I heard the bus operator say, “Sir, do you need a ride? I’m bus #92!” As I looked out the window, across the busy street I saw a blind fellow, cane in one hand, pushing a small cart with the other. The bus operator got off the bus, signaled another bus going in the opposite direction to stop, as well as a car going in the same direction.
The bus operator guided the man onto the bus and to a seat directly behind the driver’s seat. What took place next were sheer moments of compassion, empathy, and a connection between one human being and another. The blind fellow profusely thanked the bus operator, who then engaged the man in a delightful conversation about sports. They talked about baseball and fishing. I could hear the joy in the man’s voice. He was so incredibly grateful not only for the caring and thoughtful heart of the bus operator, but for speaking with him person to person. The operator didn’t treat him any differently in his conversation than he would with any other passenger. I recall the man telling the bus operator about some kids who had damaged his cane some time ago. Yes, I know exactly what you are thinking, so let’s just leave it at that, as the words I could write would pale in comparison with how we all feel about it.
The blind fellow informed the bus operator where he wanted to get off the bus. I was quite shocked, to tell you the truth, as it was at least 3 or 4 miles from where the gentleman was picked up. To think this dear soul had planned on walking this entire distance was mind-boggling and here’s why: not only was his cane damaged, but his cart had a ‘wonky wheel’. He was using a cane for assistance, but this little cart of his had only 3 working wheels. As the man exited the bus, the operator asked him if he was okay getting to his destination; the gentleman said he was fine, and once again thanked the operator for his kindness.
As you might recall, I was a volunteer at a center for blind and low-vision folks. To witness the exchange of these wonderful gentlemen was especially meaningful to me on a personal level. At my stop I approached the bus operator. I thanked him for what he had done and that I would be letting the Chicago Transit Authority know about his incredibly empathetic gesture.
Rick, if you ever read this, I want to say thank you. Thank you for, “getting it”. Thank you for understanding what it means to help a fellow human being. Thank you for making a difference in people’s lives. Thank you for realizing what we are all supposed to be doing for each other. Thank you for showing your caring and wonderful spirit.
And I now know why I took the Route #92 bus the other day.
** Addendum: I received a nice email from the Chicago Transit Authority’s Customer Service Department. They are sending my comment about Rick to his supervisor(s). I’m so glad Rick will be acknowledged for his thoughtful and kind work.
Cher, stories like this make me love Our Fair City all the more. Thank you for sharing it, and thank you for putting in a good word for the driver with the CTA.
LikeLiked by 1 person
How about the fact that YOU just made my day! Thank you so much for your wonderful words my dear! Yes, I was so incredibly grateful to witness such a compassionate act. Yeay, CHICAGO!! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cher I read the article thank you. Ricky
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well I am so extremely happy to hear this! I hope you can read through the wonderful comments people wrote! I also hope your supervisors gave you the commendation you deserve! The post will also be listed on another blog soon (called, “The Kindness Blog”; I’ll post a link when it’s up! I cannot say enough about your amazing work! From everyone on this blog, “Thank YOU!!” Cher xo
LikeLike
Foster, right? Mom used to teach at the Goudy School at Winthrop and Foster.
There are some surly drivers, but the nice ones more than make up for them.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi John, yes the Foster Bus. This operator went above and beyond and I was thrilled to witness it, that’s for sure! Cher xo
LikeLike
Great story! We need more like this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, thank you dear! I agree; we sure do, don’t we? Cher xo
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing Cher, Namaste
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, dear Amber! Big hugs, Cher xo
LikeLike
Wow, Cher! Thank you from my heart for sharing this story. Tears are running down my face while writing this. This is so very beautiful! I believe that there is so much love around no matter how many bad things happen. Witnessing this is such a proof of light. Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well bless you my dear Erika! I must admit that I had tears when I witnessed this soulful act. Thank goodness for sunglasses! Yes, there are always those amazing gems of light out there. Blessings to you, my dear! Thank you for your wonderful words! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can imagine that it must have been such a deeply touching experience. I am happy for you that you witnessed such a wonderful act of kindness! Big hugs, Cher 💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
Tthis is so beautiful. There is so much goodness in this world still. Thanks for sharing this Cher! 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, bless you, John! Thank you! Yes, I agree; when we see such horrible news stories, thank God we can also know there are souls like this helping the world be a more decent place! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
A wonderful story and it is so uplifting to think there are still kind and compassionate people put there, when all the time in the media, we hear and see nothing but terror, hatred and misery. Thanks to you for sharing this, and thanks again to Rick. A thorough gentleman in every sense. Take the bus more often!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, thank you so much, Jane! I completely agree. It so incredibly difficult to watch the news and feel as if there is nothing good going on, as it were. But to witness something such as Rick’s compassionate assistance was a great renewal of faith in the human spirit. Yes, I think I will start taking the bus more often, Jane! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
I often use it and get the most amazing insights into the lives of everyday folk. Not to mention ideas for stories. Yours made me smile and am still feeling the lift. Enjoy your bus rides…so much more fun than the train…unless of course there is a mystery happening right before your eye on there too…:) xx
LikeLike
Why thank you so much, dear Jane! I am so grateful for your comments! Ah, bless! Well that’s very true; it’s all around us and yet most of the time we are so wrapped up in our phones, ourselves, everything but our surroundings, aren’t we? I love the mysteries and the good things that are there for us to see!! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree. Well, you have a fab weekend and take time for yourself too. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
You too, Jane! Thank you! xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Just such a wonderful story, Cher – thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, thank you so much for that, dear Don! I was sooo grateful to have taken the bus that day instead of the train. Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for sharing such a warm story — We need it after yesterday.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much my dear. Yes, I wept when I saw the news and felt so much anger as well. Bless you for your words; thank YOU! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
How beautiful and moving. Thank you for sharing such an uplifting story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, dear Tonya! I really appreciate your kind and thoughtful words always! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re most welcome, Cher! :). Your posts are always so beautiful and inspiring. xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Likewise to you my dear! Thank you so kindly!! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Author Erika Kind and commented:
No matter how dark this world may appear. Love and compassion is alive. Please read Cher’s story!
LikeLiked by 1 person
There is goodness in the world!
LikeLike
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story Cher and thanks to Rick, you are the proof that there still are good and kind souls in our world.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, bless! Thank you so much, dear Irene! Truly I am so incredibly grateful to have seen this wonderful bus operator assisting this equally wonderful fellow! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful post, Cher, and a lovely story. There is still a lot of good in this world 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, bless! Thank you so much, Helen! That is extremely sweet of you to say! Yes, I agree; there really is still a lot of good in this world, thank goodness!!! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful story dear Cher.. and it makes my heart glad there are such kind souls around.. 🙂 thank you for sharing such a heartfelt story, showing in the main we do care…
I must share this with my Son, who drives buses for a living 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, thank YOU so much for your wonderful comments, dear Sue! It was so heartwarming to witness such empathy and kindness, Sue. Oh yes, please share it with your son; thank you so much! That’s brilliant! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂
LikeLike
Beautiful. He well deserves the thanks. 🙂 Thanks for the inspiring story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why thank you so kindly my dear! I really appreciate your thoughtful words. I agree; he really does deserve thanks, and I’m extremely glad his supervisors will let him know! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
So inspirational!! Wonderful to witness how kind people can be if they choose to be. The C.T.C. should be very proud of him, he went way beyond his call of duty! Just taking a moment in your everyday life can give joy to those who need it most! A caring hand, a simple smile can turn a persons day around! I like to think there are a lot of “Rick” type people out there who go above and beyond each and every day, without giving it a second thought!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi there, dearie! It was was wonderful. He sure did go well beyond the call of duty. I agree completely. I can tell that Rick didn’t give it a second thought at all. I love everything you said here my dear. Well put!! Cher xoxo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post and love the part about puting yourself in someones shoes . I also feel not be judgemental is a wayof accepting others. Thanks for another grest post. 😊Lori English@lorislittlelessons.com
LikeLike
Why thank you, Lori! I really appreciate your comments and I agree; not being judgmental is a way of accepting others! That is very true! Cher xo
LikeLike
So sorry I missed this post, Cher. A good friend who writes about PTSD alerted me to this particular post. So glad she did. What a wonderful story! Is there a follow-up? xoxo 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, thanks so much, dear Carol! Yes, Rick has read this post, and he also was given accolades by his supervisors. He wrote on this post if you happen to see a comment by, “Ricky” 🙂 Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, I saw his comment. Short, but sweet. Evidently, he is a very caring person. Talks when necessary, but quiet when not. We all love stories like this one, and thanks for being that person who not only told it, but also lived it!!! 🙂 How fortunate for all involved. xo Carol
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree, dear Carol!!! Thank you and also for reblogging this post! Always grateful to you! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Sunshinebright and commented:
My friend, Cher, posted this beautiful story. I believe it should be shared again and again. Love for one another is still going strong among strangers.
LikeLike
Lovely, Cher, kindness is so easy to practise and so lovely to read about it in your post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, thanks dear Mo! This was such a wonderful thing to witness. Rick has read this post, and his supervisors are aware of his extremely kind and compassionate ways! By the way, it is lovely to see you, Mo!!! Cher xoxo
LikeLike
Awesome,sharing this on my Facebook page. My co-workers and boss will enjoy the read…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well how sweet are you, Shelie! Thank you sooooo much! That is extremely thoughtful of you!! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are welcome, I have worked at a home for the blind now for many years. I thought it was neat that I came across your story.
LikeLike
Oh did you, Shelie? I volunteered at a center for the blind for about 4 1/2 years. I’ve included a link to a post I did about these dear souls last year: http://wp.me/p4doQv-vU
But again, thanks so much and I also have to say thank you for working at a home for the blind; I just know they are so grateful and happy to have you there!
Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the link and your words, great stories!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so kindly, Shelie!! And again, thank you for your honorable work with the blind community! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a great story. It’s good to know that there are some people like that in the world.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why thank you so kindly! Yes, I agree; it was overwhelming to witness! Thank you for your thoughtful comments! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for posting this. I’ve had a bit of a day today, one of those when you wonder about humanity. You’ve brought a glow back to my heart 🙂 Have a great weekend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, bless you, my dear! Thank you so much! I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you saying that! Oh yes, I know exactly what you mean; I have those kinds of days too. I think it is a good reminder for us all that there are those dear gems in the world to remind us of what goodness there is out there. Thank you again! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a wonderful story! Thank you for sharing and for letting the Chicago transit authority know. I found your blog from Suzie’s party!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why thank you so much, my dear! And the bus operator (Rick) has read this post! He put a comment on this post that he had done so and thanked me. But really, the thanks should be entirely to him! Isn’t Suzie awesome? I adore her! And now I shall go and check out your blog! Thank you so much! Cher xo
LikeLike
Oh I am so glad he has read it! I hope he is reading all the comments too. Thank you Rick! She is awesome. Such a fun thing to participate in. Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, I am hoping he’s reading all of the comments, too! Yes, she sure is! Well I see you have a birthday two days after mine! Mine was October 28th, and yours is October 30th! Huge happy birthday to you, my dear! I’ll go and comment on your blog right now! Cher xo
LikeLike
Happy Birthday to you too! Best wishes for the year ahead!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why thank you, Tiffany!! Muchly appreciated! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so touching brought a tear to my eyes, moments like these are truly magical.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, bless you, Marje! Thank you so much for your wonderful words. I found myself having tears when it was happening; it was very magical and special indeed! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a heartwarming experience! Having been raised and living south of Chicago, I have witnessed all sorts of things- some good and some bad but it never fails to thrill me when I hear about the compassion of others! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, bless you Kat and a huge, welcome to The Chicago Files! You are a Chicagoan so you do know first-hand the good, the bad, and everything in between of our city. I fee the same way as you do, Kat. For me, it changes my perspective in so many ways and truly allows for me to look for the good around me. This particular day was special. Thanks, Kat! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Chicago is a world of its own kind and I do love it! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I feel the same way, Kat!! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Stories like this restore one’s faith in humanity and remind us that it’s not all doom and gloom. There really are some thoroughly decent, kind and compassionate people out there. Thanks for sharing this lovely story, Cher and for being a “thoroughly decent” by taking the time to follow it up with a commendation 🙂 Sue (via Suzy81’s Halloween Party)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Sue! Thank you so much for your wonderful comments! Ah, bless! I was so overwhelmed when I saw the bus operator’s (Rick) wonderful gesture that I could not simply ignore it. I felt a restoration with my faith in humanity that day too, Sue. Thank you!! Cher xo
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Suzie Speaks and commented:
I loved this post from Cher – hop on over and give her some blog love!
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful story. I suspect acts of kindness go on around us on a daily basis, but you were there, at the right place and time to witness it. I believe if people looked up and paid attention (such as you did) to the world moving around them, they too could see little acts of compassion and people caring about others every day. I think kindness and compassion are contagious, and if we all strive to do kind things for others it will be like a ripple effect on the still face of a lake.
Thank-you for sharing this!!!!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why thank you so kindly for your wonderful words! I really feel we need to try and see opportunities to reach out and show kindness to everyone. Bless you, my dear and thank you again for thoughtful words and kindness! Cher xo
LikeLiked by 1 person