Everything helps

I will start by saying,

 I am on the edge of sleep.

Please excuse my bit of ramble.

You never know who needs help,

 and what they need.

Case in point.

I was cooking at one of the colleges.

After work,

 walking to the public library,

a couple of teenagers asked if I needed help.

It must have been a rough day,

 and I was probably dragging.

They did help.

They gave me a smile.

Let them know I was fine.

I had mixed feelings afterwards, 

  and I still do.

Part of me is thinking,

 you don't approach a stranger.

  No telling what could happen.

They hadn't reached that point.

They just wanted to help someone.

Reviews

[Eliazar]

There's a lot of meaning behind those last two lines. Made me wonder if our natural inclination is to support others and that caution against people is something we learn later on in our lives.
Keep up the good work!

[Jon Roggie]

We get jaded. Still, no reason not to try.
Thank you.

[Coyote Poetry]

It is nice when a stranger is kind. All of need this. I believe some people hold on to the ability to be kind. Thank you Jon for sharing the excellent poetry.
Coyote

[Jon Roggie]

Just a touch of memory. It is easier to let kindness slip away. Holding on to it takes more effort, but is more rewarding.

Thank you.
Jon

[Coyote Poetry]

I agree Jon and you are welcome.

[Ruth]

It is a fine balance but we never know the simple victories of a day one may meet by being helped :) This is lovely and even though diverted from sleep, I am glad you penned this, gave a nice affirmation to my day :)

[Jon Roggie]

I was getting to sign off when I read a comment. This was the easiest way to respond. Just one example that people do try. This would have happened in the spring of 2007.

[Papaya]

I love that. Putting faith back in people.
I think it's good to exercise caution and use good judgement. Most people are good.

[Jon Roggie]

There is always room in life for hope, and a touch of faith.

[Papaya]

So true!!!

[Shannon]

It is a good idea to help. Even strangers. Just bring smart about it.

It's sometimes hard for people to tell others they need help.

You remembered the offer. There is power in that.

[Jon Roggie]

Sometimes the help offered by a stranger, given without asking, is the most precious.