A group of men and women in their 50s and 60s frequently gather near my office building.  The group size generally ranges from four to seven people.  Each is an alcoholic and frequently a couple of them are quite drunk, especially during the first half of the month. 

I treat those in the group like other folks in our small town when I meet them.  I wave, say hello, shake their hands, and get to know their names and what’s going in their lives. 

I am not certain why so many people turn their head when they approach the group or walk by the group without acknowledging them.  Just a few steps beyond the group, those same people will show an unrestrained expression of kindness toward someone stepping out of the bank.  

Clearly, we have the ability to be kind to those we choose.  We came forth from the same source, and each of us is pursuing our purpose wherever that may lead us.  Some were given better life situations and starts in life than others, but we are on this journey together.   

We should all challenge ourselves to be a little kinder to all folks, even those from whom we can never expect anything in return.