Several times in the last week, I have found myself in need of help whether I thought I needed it or not. On an anxious drive home due to too much planning and a heavy schedule, one of my bags fell off my bike and a hundred copies spilled onto the street - most of which thankfully were to be recycled. Regardless, three little street boys appeared out of nowhere and picked them up in a matter of seconds in the middle of jammed packed traffic no less. Two other gentlemen made sure my bag was securely attached to my bike before I left. I gave most of the copies to the kids half of which they returned to me after they saw that it looked like homework. The next day, I was struggling to start my bike - as usual - it's typical of a Nouvo. Great bike - bad starter. A young man looking very concerned, wouldn't leave until he started the bike. We then realized that there was no gas. So, he then walked me to up and out of the parking garage to the little man who sells gas across the street. He wouldn't leave until I was firmly on my bike with engine running. The next day I lost my parking ticket and the attendant refused to let me out. I was trapped in City Plaza Supermarket. A young woman approached me asking if I was okay. I explained and she helped me to look for the ticket. We wandered around the lot and stores for about an hour. No luck. She stayed with me until the owner of the bike arrived with proof of registration. Today, my little corner cafe was closed and I stood staring blankly. A man stopped and asked me what I needed. I explained and he insisted on taking me to a cafe down the street. A true genuine concern - a natural one. Not asking for anything. All these gestures just felt selfless and immediate.. Maybe that's why they always ask "An com chu" - have you eaten yet?. A real concern for your well being. I've heard so many people say in the last year that the Vietnamese are rude or demanding. All I can see is people who help you just because ... nothing asked in return ... well, most of the time;).
AMIE, I AM AT THE BEST WESTERN WITH YOUR MOTHER AND DAVIS IN SANTA BARBARA. THE KINDNESS THAT COMES YOUR WAY IS NOT BY CHANCE. IT COMES TO YOU FROM YOUR ENERGY AND LOVE FOR THOSE AROUND YOU. IT IS GIVEN TO YOU AS A GIFT FOR YOUR COMPASSION AND CONCERN FOR OTHERS. WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND. WE ARE HAVING A LOVELY TIME. DAVIS IS OFF TO COLLEGE. ONE MORE TO GO. MISS YOU AND THINK OF YOU EVERYDAY. ON OUR WAY HERE YOUR MOTHER AND I HAD QUITE A CONVERSATION ABOUT YOU. SHE/WE LOVE TALKING ABOUT YOU. KEEP UP WITH THE UPDATES. WE LOVE READING ABOUT YOUR ADVENTURES.
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