When I was at the prison recently, a thunderstorm rolled in. Rain poured. There was lightning and then a loud boom. The power went out, and then the backup power system kicked in. Everyone was told over the loudspeaker that there was now a lockdown and they must return to their rooms. This meant I needed to leave.
I said goodbye to the individual I was mentoring and began collecting my things. Two women came running from different directions with large garbage bags. “You can’t go out like that. You need something to protect you.” They proceeded to create a makeshift raincoat and rain hat for me from the plastic bags.
That happened several weeks ago, but I’m still reflecting on the experience. These were not women I knew previously. They were not enrolled in any of our programs. Yet they noticed and anticipated my need. They actually put themselves at risk by taking the time to care about me before returning to their rooms. There could have been negative consequences for them from one of the officers.
These two women, both of whom could easily be discounted because they are incarcerated, are a great example for us. We’re all experiencing division, ugliness in speech, and underlying fear. We are not helpless. Taking the time to notice each other and anticipate each other’s needs puts out a different kind of energy. Little things like speaking with courtesy, learning the name of a neighbor or clerk in the store, letting another driver merge, all help to draw us together and build community.
Have you had an experience that helped you to see goodness where others might see division?