DEAR ABBY: The letters I see you print about "acts of kindness" always give me a lift, so I thought I'd tell you about mine.
I was nine months pregnant and had a few errands to run -- taking some clothes to the Laundromat, cashing my husband's paycheck, etc.
While I was transferring my laundry from the washing machine to the dryer, I turned around to find that my purses, detergent and a magazine I had been reading were all missing. I frantically searched everywhere, including the trash bins inside and outside. Because I had just cashed the paycheck, the thieves got away with almost $600 in cash.
A woman who had just walked in and witnessed my frantic search, came over and handed me $20 to "get by." Being stressed out and hormonal, I was floored by her kind gesture and started to cry. She gave me a big hug, and her kindness got me through the day.
I went into labor that night and gave birth to a gorgeous baby girl. I will never forget the woman's gentle nature, or the fact that even though I was victimized by someone who couldn't miss the fact that I was extremely pregnant, I also encountered an act of kindness. I hope she knows what a difference she made and that I still remember her, 15 years later. -- CHRISTY IN GREELEY, COLO.
DEAR CHRISTY: Considering the fact that you not only got a hug and $20, but also a priceless bundle of joy from heaven, I'd have to say you came out a winner that day, wouldn't you?