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SALT LAKE CITY — February is the month we celebrate our love for that special someone, but what if we extended that celebration and expression to everyone in our lives?
Each week, readers share stories of times they felt loved or special when they saw something good or kind.
This week, look around and see if you could spread the love.
On a friend's kindness:
Jeanette P.
"My husband has struggled for years with many health issues. Last year, I ran into a friend as she was being helped by the checker. We talked for a few minutes about my family, and she could see the discouragement in my face and voice. At the end of her transaction, she turned and gave me money. She insisted I take it and left. I was so touched by her gift, but even more was her time spent listening and understanding my discouragement. I left the store in deep gratitude for what she had done."
On what families are for:
Kenny K.
"Three years ago I had my right foot amputated and the cost for a new liner for my leg is $400. I have no insurance and was having a hard time coming up with the money to get a new liner. The day after Christmas, my bowling league was getting ready to bowl, and the Hinnen family came to me and said 'Merry Christmas' and handed me a gift bag, and in that bag was some candy and $400 for my new liner.
"They said that is what families are for. I want to thank them for thinking of me as part of their family, and I'm proud to be their brother."
On giving to give:
Chris W."Recently, my in-laws, wife and I went to dinner at Bistro in the Avenues. This was our first time being introduced to the place because of some certificates my mother-in-law received from work.
"All eight of us sat down and ordered, and the owner was talking with her male friend when she came to introduce herself and show us her dream come true — the restaurant. Afterward, we all ate and enjoyed the food tremendously. When it was time to go, the waitress informed us that the owner's friend paid our tab of $180 for us! I was in awe; such a kind, selfless, friendly act to pay for total strangers. He was gone by the time we found out, but that didn't stop it from making us all feel like we should give back anonymously more often. I don't need praise, just knowing I did a good deed is enough for me."
On helping out:
Zonna G.
"Recently, my grandson and his pregnant wife (both in their early 20s) went to turn in a bag of cans that I had given them for some gas money. Neither one of them is working at the moment.
"A gentleman ahead of them had turned in quite a bit of stuff. He got his money first and then when it was their turn the cashier was stalling on giving them their money. When he finally did give them their money, it was $100 more than the cans were worth. He had stalled to give the other gentleman enough time to get out of there before the kids could thank him. I thank that gentleman for restoring this young couple's outlook on people."
Have you seen any moments of service or kindness? Do you want to share a story about something that made your day? Email a brief story (100 words or fewer) along with any photos or video to crosenlof@ksl.com.
