A few months ago, I decided to go to a soccer game. I have never been to one, so of course being the happy girl I am, I was so excited to be making new memories with friends and enjoying a new sport to watch. In fact I was so excited that I was running around my house frantically because I lost track of time and I was going to be late. What made me late was painting my nails and putting on makeup. Also the several outfit changes, but we will not talk about that because that is a different story for another time. Anyway being the best driver I am, made it not only on time, but also pulling in the same time my friends did.
I think I deserve bonus points for that, but oh well.
Now we have these factors, running late, changing outfits, nicely done makeup, and semi-dry nails. Out of all the things I did, do you think I did everything? Well you have two answers...
A) Of course Sydney got every done, she made it on time to in that short amount of time. She is a well-organized person!
OR
B) Uh no, you forgot something silly.
If you couldn't figure it out, the answer is B. I never thought I should check the weather for the OUTSIDE soccer game.
It was right before half time when I receive a call from my mother. She called saying that a major storm was heading our way and that I should take cover or get out of the rain. I told my friends about the rain coming and luckily they had extra umbrellas in their cars. But being the smart girl I am, I wanted to watch the game even though this storm was coming—resulted in me never taking my mother's advice. The rain started down pouring after half time ended. The crowd frantically ran around trying to take cover from the hard rain and gusting winds. It was completely awful!
Now there is a building where the announcements take place along with the bathrooms and concessions. I ran over clutching my umbrella trying to not get anymore wet then I already am. Even though the building was blocking the west winds, it somehow made its way around. This entire time the soccer game was still going on which made me be cheerful, but also very cold and disgusted.
As I was struggling to even keep hold of my umbrella, I glance across and not too far from me was an older gentleman in a wheel chair. He had a blanket wrapped around his head and his hands were shaking.
These next moments happened in what seemed like a flash to me. I did not even think twice on why I did what I did. Just at that moment all I could think about was to help this man. So I did.
I ran over to the man and held my umbrella over him. The look on his face I will never forget. He was so shocked to see a girl like me even come over to him. Finally, he responds with a mumbling thank you. He was still astonished that he was being helped.
I will have to say it was hard holding this umbrella though. The wind was not a beneficial factor and the rain thought it was a good idea to get my whole side soaked. But I made sure that the gentleman did not get wet. I remember thinking that I would rather be dripping wet than for him to get wet and cold maybe leading to getting sick.
As the rain storm continued, this man decided to start a conversation. He asked me what my name was, what grade I was in, where I go to school, and if I loved to watch soccer. Not once though I was able to ask this man any questions. It seemed as if he wanted only me to talk. And I was okay with talking. It's one of my many talents to carry on conversations.
The rain began to let up and the wind started to die down. The man chuckled and drifted off looking at the soccer field. I tried to see what he was looking so intently at, but there was nothing in view. Finally, he sighed and turn towards me,
"I wish there were more people like you in this world. It would be a much better place," he replied softly.
Then another man who looked like he could be the older man's son grabbed his wheelchair and began to push him,
"Thank you for taking care of him," the younger man said. The older gentleman smiled and waved as he was rolled off towards the parking lot.
I have not seen this man for a while now, but this memory still touches my heart today. And I tell myself every day and every person going through difficult situations that everything happens for a reason.
We just don't know that reason yet.
So with these words of advice, treat others with kindness. In fact, treat the whole world with kindness and courteous actions. Because you never know what might a person may be experiencing to possibly need a shine of light in their life.
And I just want to say thank you to the man in the wheelchair. I may have not of gotten to be fully introduced to you, but I hope your life has the brightness you deserve.
Thank you.


















