This journey has pushed me far outside my comfort zone. There’s a common stereotype that solo travelers are naturally extroverted—people who love striking up conversations, making friends everywhere they go, and thriving on social interaction. That stereotype could not be further from the truth for me.
I am deeply introverted and often struggle to talk to people, whether they are old friends or complete strangers. Yet over the past few days of solo travel, I’ve found myself doing exactly that, talking more, engaging more, and noticing one thing above all else: kindness.
The Kindness of Strangers at Queen Victoria Market
One Bible verse about kindness and hospitality that has been on my heart during this trip is Hebrews 13:1–2:
“Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
I absolutely love this verse.
As I walked through the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne this afternoon, I saw it lived out in real time. Vendors greeting customers with warmth. Customers thanking vendors sincerely. Strangers helping strangers without expecting anything in return. It didn’t matter who they were or where they came from, kindness was everywhere.
These were people, likely unknown to one another, simply choosing to be kind.
Do We Still Notice Kindness in Everyday Life?
When you go about your daily routine, do you notice this kind of kindness? In many places, it feels rare. We move through our days focused on ourselves, when we’ll eat, the work we need to finish, the traffic we’re stuck in.
I’m guilty of it too.
But knowing Jesus is knowing true kindness. And to be like Jesus is not about polite smiles or an automatic thank you, it’s about genuine, selfless kindness. The kind that sees people. The kind that pauses. The kind that loves without conditions.
Choosing Kindness, One Moment at a Time
Be the light your world is missing. If each of us made a conscious effort to choose kindness, every day, in small ways, the world really would become brighter, one place at a time.
You never know who your kindness will reach. You could make someone’s day, or even save someone’s life, with the simplest act. You may not be an angel, but you can be somebody’s angel by choosing kindness.
Reflection Questions
- When was the last time I noticed, or received, the kindness of a stranger, and how did it impact my day or perspective?
- What is one simple, intentional act of kindness I can choose today that reflects Christ’s love to someone I might otherwise overlook?
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