When I came from India to the US and started graduate school at the University of Cincinnati, I made a lot of new friends. But over the winter holidays, most of my fellow students used the three week break to travel or to go home and visit their families. So during the winter break of 2008, I was alone and lonely for the three week break, and one of my good friends who had family nearby to Cincinnati invited me to her family’s house for Christmas. Most people I know wouldn’t have done this; since we weren’t dating or anything, most people would have found it awkward or been afraid of being asked questions about the relationship/friendship. But she invited me just as a good friend who didn’t want me to be lonely and wanted me to feel welcome in America during the most important American holidays.
We arrived at her house around noon on Christmas Eve. Her family was very warm and welcoming. They showed me how they cook their special Christmas lasagna. Then we played games and watched Christmas movies. That night, I went with them to their church. My friend’s mom was singing in the church choir. Later that night, I was even a part of the gift opening. My friend’s family even had a gift for me so I would feel included. I was overwhelmed by their kindness.
This has always stuck with me as one of the nicest things anyone has ever done for me. Even thousands of miles away from my family, I felt like I had a family away from home. I hope someday I can do the same for someone else.
Read other answers by Tarun Jaiswal on Quora:
- Have you ever experienced a random act of kindness towards you from a stranger?
- Random Acts of Kindness: What are some small things you've seen people do that touched you?
- What aspects of your interpersonal skills are most important for your quality of life?
from Quora http://ift.tt/2ha0n9z
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