novel
ITS THE LITTLE THINGS IN LIFE
encounter with a man that makes every interaction worthwhile
@softbutterontoast · December 18, 2025
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as I was driving out of the city today I stopped at the lights and saw John Campbell walking down the street towards the intersection. I could spot his jolly walk from a mile away. as he finished crossing the road, he turned to his right and gave two big waves to a car stopped at the other set of lights. he turns back and continues walking with a smile on his face. he has two larger black bags. I wonder if he is going home now, maybe he went shopping or to the gym. I spot a girl walking up the street towards him, and as they cross paths I see John say ‘Hi!’. with his lovely smile of course. the girl hesitant for a split second, but smiles and says hi back. continuing his jolly walk further down the street, i watch him in my rear view as I move with the signal of the light and flow of the traffic. he’s so genuine and spreading happiness and kindness, even when he’s not on the TV, even when no one is watching. that is such a beautiful thing, so simple but not easy, John does effortlessly. he reminds me that life is about the simple things and to spread kindness to others, and I appreciate him for that.