McFlurries and Life Lessons

I was a freshly-turned eleven-year-old, brimming with the excitement of summer break. As part of the “gifted program” i was a member of in school, the beginning of my summer break included a week long learning experience that was unlike a typical school week. It was basically like a week long excursion of field trips, newfound friends, and interactive learning opportunities. I looked forward to this yearly experience, as it was always sure to provide many wonderful memories.

The Gifted Program Summer Class

Offered by multiple school districts in the surrounding areas, this program provided the opportunity for a week long immersion in a subject tailored to each student’s individual interests. Each student selected their top three course choices, and would be enrolled in one of their three picks. From hands-on activities to exciting field trips, each day was guaranteed to be full of adventurous learning.

Each morning, we would arrive early to school, and board buses that would take us to our destination an hour or two away. Each day was filled with excitement, beautifully forged friendships due to meeting new people from multiple school districts in your class, and immersive, hands on learning opportunities.

The Smallest Moments

One moment from a particular year still vividly stands out to me to this day. Ironically enough, it was one of the more mundane details; a seemingly ordinary occurrence that one wouldn’t even remember.

However, it was anything but mundane for me, as the memory still lives on as one of the more pivotal learning experiences of not only the program, but of my life.

From Mundane to Meaningful

What was this seemingly unimportant detail permanently ingrained in my mind? It was a simple lunchtime visit to McDonald’s.

It was planned as our lunch break after a morning of busy excursions. I don’t recall which course I was taking, or which activity we had just finished, but I recall this particular lunch like it happened yesterday.

As I excitedly enjoyed my happy meal, my newfound friend and I began discussing how delicious a McFlurry would be. We had the idea of splitting one, and immediately jumped into action. Pooling our leftover money together, we eagerly counted our coins to insure we could purchase this additional treat. Realizing that we could, we excitedly made our way to the register, discussing which flavor option was our favorite.

As we approached the counter, another couple joining the line behind us. They wore attire typical of the gothic subculture. They joined the line behind us, prompting a few curious stares from other patrons. However, their presence didn’t dampen my spirits; it piqued my interest. I observed how their unconventional appearance garnered such negative attention and unease, and with such quickness. This seemed unfair and presumptive.

This moment unfolded during the heightened unease in the wake of the Columbine tragedy just a few months prior. The media frenzy surrounding the event had cast a shadow of suspicion over anyone who dared to dress in dark clothing or don a trench coat. Such attire was unfairly associated with the image of a potential threat—a stereotype that threatened to engulf those who merely embraced a different fashion sense.

Yet, despite the prevailing atmosphere of apprehension, I found myself unfazed. Rather than succumbing to the prevailing prejudices, I maintained an open-minded perspective, refusing to judge based on appearances alone.

However, I do vividly recall how a twinge of guilt gnawed at the edges of my consciousness, an unwelcome companion to my unwavering resolve. Despite my steadfast belief in the inherent goodness of others, I couldn’t shake the lingering doubt that persisted, fueled by the insidious influence of societal stereotypes. I mean, what if there was some truth to hysteria? I didn’t believe it, but I was a child. I knew I could technically be wrong. Even though I didn’t personally subscribe to these stereotypes, the mere fact that they entered my mind caused a pang of guilt. It was a stark reminder of the impact societal views can have, especially when they’re pushed upon us from a young age. The realization that these stereotypes had managed to infiltrate my thoughts, however briefly, left me unsettled. It was a testament to the power of societal conditioning, a reminder that even the strongest convictions can be swayed by external influences.

The Exchange

As my friend and I counted our change at the register, this “gothic” duo caught the attention of the worker with an outstretched hand. In a gesture of unexpected kindness, they offered to cover the cost of our McFlurry—an act of generosity that left me momentarily speechless.

Despite our protests and assurances that we could cover the expense ourselves, they insisted, urging us to save our money for another occasion. Their entire demeanor was anything but intimidating. It was quite warm, welcoming, and friendly. I smiled, at their kindness, and at my belief in the goodness of humanity, regardless of their appearance, being proven right. Their selfless gesture served as a poignant reminder of the inherent goodness within each individual, regardless of outward appearances.

The Lesson

In that fleeting moment, as we savored our McFlurries, I found myself reflecting on the profound lesson I had just learned. It was a lesson that transcended the confines of that McDonald’s restaurant—a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, igniting a chain reaction of compassion and empathy.

A LIFE Lesson

As I navigated the tumultuous waters of adolescence and beyond, that encounter served as a guiding light, a beacon of empathy and understanding in a world often marred by prejudice and judgment. It’s a reminder of the transformative power of small acts of kindness, how they have the ability to challenge deeply ingrained stereotypes and reshape perceptions.

Who would have thought that a simple McFlurry could be the catalyst for a domino effect of sweet treats—helping a young, impressionable mind question stereotypes and further foster a world where the impact of kindness and a willingness to further explore mankind is shown? Even if it’s merely shown one small act a time, it builds a much more steady foundation upon which to stand on.

In fact, I imagine it is likely they didn’t even realize the profound impact their actions had on a young mind. They likely never will, and likely have forgotten what they viewed as a very small gesture.

However, this experience has taught me a valuable life lesson that I continue to carry with me.

DO NOT be so quick to judge. DO be that quick to be kind.

Even the smallest acts of kindness can create profound and lasting impacts.