I’m not entirely sure if I should smile or cry that this happened to me several days ago.
photo by quinntheislander
I want to smile because caring, gracious people are still all around us. I want to cry because I feel I may have offended the same gracious people.
What happened? I boarded the bus for home, carrying a tote and a small paper bag. As I passed the driver’s cabin after paying the fare, a young lady half stood and gestured to her seat. “You sit,” she said.
I thanked her politely and smiled widely, but declined. I had only three stops to go and was perfectly fine with standing.
As I made my way towards the rear of the bus, two students jumped up and chorused, “Auntie, you sit down!” Again, I thanked them and declined, assuring them I was fine.
But here’s my dilemma: should I accept such offers? I feel I should have because the rejection might send unintended messages to those of us raised to be gracious. Have I “taught” the students, for instance, not to offer their seats next time?
But why would I sit when my journey is short? And your day might have been more tiring so you deserve the seat even more.
The only thing I’m certain of is my gratitude that gracious kindness still exists.
What do you think? What would you have done?
By the way, I’m not yet a senior citizen and I don’t look elderly. I think.
1kindness2day 
i would have said thank you and declined, as you did.
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Thank you. 🌷
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I don’t think there is any need to accept. The people who offered feel good to have done the right thing, and they’d do it again, I’m sure. In addition, everyone on the bus who saw that probably felt good. I know I do when I see that. I always think how proud the people who raised the seat offerer would feel. It brightens my day. Good all the way round. 🙂
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Thank you. 🌷
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I think your fine . They did this out of politeness , good manners , I’m sure they didn’t think anything of it when you declined .
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🤗
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They were kind. You responded kindly. I’m sorry you have a voice that seems to be causing you distress regarding your decision. If you had accepted the offers, would a different voice be criticizing you for that choice? Just curious.
I’ve started choosing to accept kindnesses when offered (unless it’s really something I don’t want) and simply saying “thank you” as I accept. Compliments. Directions. I don’t have to think very hard about my response. I assume they’re genuine in their offer. And…I accept. I like the simplicity of it and how it feels.
I hope you’re able to let go of the inner doubt around this. You sound as if you did just fine. Hugs.
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Thank you so much for responding. Yes, I think if I’d accepted, I’d then be wondering if I was being a fraud or something.
I like the way you respond to similar situations. I will learn to be polite, express gratitude, accept graciously and pay it forward.
Have a great week ahead. Thank you 🌷
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Ripples of kindness 💕
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🤗
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