Giving people a listening ear.

United States
December 11, 2007 8:08pm CST
Today something interesting and yet sad happened to me. As I was going through my day, I noticed a girl who was probably about 19 outside of my college. She was sitting on the curb just genuinely crying. There was no one else around and very cold as well as raining, so I went up to her and asked her if she was okay. I was ignored the first time but I decided to take a moment and sit beside her and ask again if she was okay. Finally, she let it all out to me, she told me that her boyfriend had just showed up there, stolen her car and had left her with no money, cell phone or help. I was shocked and after listening to her go on about how abusive her boyfriend had been, I finally helped her calm down and let her call family using my cell phone. Honestly, I believe if I hadn't stopped for a moment and talked to this girl, she could have had a very hard time getting home from college, not to mention her emotional state was at its worse. If everyone could take the time out of their busy day to offer a listening ear, there would be a lot less loneliness and heartache in this world. Of course, it won't disappear completely, but think of the difference it would make if people would just take a moment for someone else.. maybe even someone they don't know. What do you think? =)
4 people like this
7 responses
• United States
13 Dec 07
Of course it would stop some of the heartache,but getting people to do that would be like pulling teeth from a crocadile.lol that was veary sweet of you to stop and help her. im sure she sppreciated it alot and her family as well:)
• United States
13 Dec 07
very true, thankyou for your input though =)
• United States
13 Dec 07
I think so as well, I actually have a friend that was starting to go crazy because all her boyfriends continued to treat her like trash one after the other. She was about to completely snap, but i was able to help her through it and now we're great friends.
• United States
13 Dec 07
wow, abuse is a horrible thing, thats good that she had someone like you to help her through it.
@imadriscoll (2228)
• United States
12 Dec 07
I agree with you completely. I live in the Midwest and people tend to be very friendly and kind, usually willing to go the extra mile for a stranger. But times are changing and people get so wrapped up in their own agendas and schedules that they don't take the time to look around them and see how a few moments out of their busy lives can really make life better for those around them. Kudos for taking the time to listen. May we all learn a lesson from you.
1 person likes this
• United States
12 Dec 07
very true, thankyou
@troopy (168)
• Australia
12 Dec 07
Well done... I work in a hotel and a few months ago a homeless fellow came in and asked if there was anywhere safe for him to sleep for the night. As the night b4 he slept in the local park and was robbed by a group on young kids, they took most of his possesions which he had in 2 bags. The manager said he didnt know anywhere and that he couldnt help. I listened to this and then told the fellow to have a seat and I'd see what I could do. I rang my girlfriend and explained the situation to her and as we live in a 5 bedroom house suggested we let him stay for the night and see what happens. She agreed although a bit aprehensive and I told the fellow and after work took him back to our home. ( our house is 2 storey and there is no internal access) So he had down stairs to himself. Well that was 2 months ago and im happy to say that Pete still lives downstairs, pay's his own way and is working + he helps out with the lawns and gardens ect. I think if the whole world had your's and my attitude, things would be a lot better. Take care
1 person likes this
• United States
12 Dec 07
wow thats great, you're right the world does need to start helping out more.
@eyewitness (1575)
• Netherlands
12 Dec 07
I think what you just did is awesome.In your case i also would have done the same. It's great to hear there are still people like you. Being a good listener and helper is something to be proud of .And you're right if everyone would take some time to listen to others and help others the world would be so much better and more peaceful. Great job. Cheers
• United States
12 Dec 07
thankyou =) hopefully we can make a small difference atleast
@liera0 (280)
• Philippines
12 Dec 07
Yes I do agree. An ounce of kindness everyday is good. She was lucky you found her first. If not something wrong might happen to her. Specially if someone who found her has other intentions. You were her angel that day. You might not have completely remove her sadness. But your act of kindness have lighthen her heart.
1 person likes this
• United States
12 Dec 07
yes im glad i was there first, thankyou
@lilaclady (28207)
• Australia
12 Dec 07
Yes I agree with you, I remember months ago outside my house at 3 in the morning a girl was screaming I thought I was having a nightmare, when I finally relizes I was not dreaming I went outside, there was a young teenage girl sitting on the ground with about 5 male neighbours all standing around her throwing questions at her, all she did was cry, so i went up to het in my dressing gown and sat next to her and calmed her down and she told me everything I needed to know, apparantly she was at a party with her boyfriend they had a fight they went for a drive and fought some more and he threw her out of the car, it only takes someone to bring themselves down to their level and show a little compassion..doesn't cost a thing....
• United States
12 Dec 07
wow, I'm sure that was surprising to find.. yes you're right, it doesn't cost a thing to help someone and talk about things, even if you don't know them =)