Gratitude for Strangers: Finding Strength in Unexpected Kindness

They’ve opened their hearts—and their homes—to me in ways I never imagined.

Doesn’t mean I wake up happy every morning. I still wait for the sunrise from my bed, watching light stretch across the walls, and sometimes feeling the weight of everything yet to come.

To the one person who made 19 hospital trips with me in 15 days, asking—relentlessly—if I needed anything, even though they owed me nothing: your generosity taught me the true meaning of gratitude for strangers.

To the woman I asked to kick my ass—my butt cheeks are sore, but probably more from mopping than the kick. Owes me nothing.

To the woman who welcomed a half-legged stranger into her home: blessed. Owes me nothing.

To the three or four others who keep tabs, make it a point to fit me in, or check in—thank you. The family included. I got a raw deal there, but your thoughtfulness matters.

To the woman who opened her doors for Zoe: you’re amazing.

To all who keep me in your thoughts: thank you.

Doesn’t mean the sirens and storms have passed—but right now, your presence keeps me steady. Gratitude for strangersdoesn’t erase the chaos, but it makes the journey lighter, warmer, and more bearable. It reminds me that even in the hardest months, human kindness is real, raw, and life-saving. These moments of connection—however small—are worth noticing, honoring, and carrying with us. They teach me that the simplest gestures can leave the deepest impressions and make all the difference when the world feels heavy.