Listen to Your Gut

Since the onset of COVID-19 in the United States, I'm sure everyone can agree with me that life as we knew it would never be the same. Gatherings seem to be a thing of the past. Physical touch feels forbidden. And if I have to partake in another Zoom or Microsoft Team virtual meeting, I probably will scream or just quit my job. The absolute worst part? No matter how much you pack or how far you travel, you're still not prepared unless you have on a mask. However, ARKs (acts of random kindness) appear to be at an all-time high. I love to see celebrities, city officials, and businesses donate to those in need. It’s an infectious, indescribable feeling to me.

My most recent ark was mere happenstance. I was shopping for groceries (an errand I loathe more than ever nowadays), and it was just a typical visit for me. Because I hate wearing a mask, I don't peruse the aisles for deals and sales. My new goal: get in and get out! I gather my items as quickly as possible and head towards the check-out area. I usually utilize the self-check-out lanes to expedite the process. For some odd reason, my gut told me to do go with the more traditional route. So I did. I found a lane occupied by the sweetest, seasoned (my coined phrase for elders) lady. Ms. Seasoned (her moniker for this story) was chatting with the cashier when I got in line behind her. I unloaded my items on the surveyor belt and patiently waited for her to pay.

First swipe: Declined

Second swipe: Declined

The cashier realized Ms. Seasoned didn't input her PIN, so she suggested the idea to her. Unfortunately, Ms. Seasoned couldn't remember her PIN. Not having her PIN also meant she couldn't withdraw any money from the ATM located in the store. Ms. Seasoned asked the cashier to try another method with her card. The cashier obliged her request.

Third swipe: Declined

Fourth swipe: Declined

My gut spoke to me again, and I heard it loud and clear. I honestly believed Ms. Seasoned didn’t have the money to cover her bill of $33.47. It troubled my soul. She seemed so defeated, confused, heartbroken, and defenseless.

During the entire exchange, I held the $40 I had allocated for my groceries in my right hand. I observed quietly as the cashier tried to negotiate with Ms. Seasoned about removing some items from her cart. My spirit weakened even more. I couldn’t stand to hear another word.

My gut spoke to me once more. The words were just as louder and more apparent as the last time. While Ms. Seasoned scanned her cart for items to put back, I handed the cashier the $40 I had in my hand. I mouthed to her, "I got it," and she nodded her head with a smile. Ms. Seasoned wanted to attempt another method with her card - unbeknownst to the ark I just extended to her.

The cashier said, "This angel took care of it for you. You can thank her if you want," as she handed the change to me. It took a minute for Ms. Seasoned to digest what had just happened. When she finally did, cautionary COVID-19 protocols vanished. No fists bumps. No six feet distance. She hugged me as she released a quiet cry on my chest. Ironically, her trembles soothed my soul. She couldn't let me go, and to be honest, I didn't want her to. She murmured "Thank You" a million times over. She even asked for my information so that she can pay me back. I asked her to pay it forward.

I’ve learned so much during 2020. Be open to change. Roll with the punches. Wear that mask. Listen to your gut. And as often as you can, extend an ark to someone.