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I’m sitting here in my studio apartment in NYC, chamomile tea in hand, candles lit, big fuzzy sweater on, and it’s been snowing HARD for the last 24 hours. It started yesterday around 4:00, and it’s been a wind-whipping, non-stop blizzard ever since!
As of publication, Central Park has had over 14 inches of snow! Fourteen inches! They’re expecting a whopping two feet by the time this is all over! Yowza! Talk about a winter wonderland! In fact, it’s NYC’s largest snow storm since 2016!
But it’s been really fascinating to watch the city outside my window become blanketed with snow. Fascinating. My apartment sits just high enough that I can still see what’s going on down below on the cute Greenwich Village streets.
I’ve seen the dog walkers…complete with dogs in parka vests and snow booties; I’ve seen the food delivery guys struggling along on their bikes; I’ve seen the bundled-up-to-their-eyeballs pedestrians, carrying bags of emergency groceries, and fighting against the wind. I’ve even seen someone go by on cross country skis!
But there was one episode that I wanted to share with you tonight…a heart warming one that was a bright spot in my day.
So, where I live, there’s a convergence of three streets, becoming one. So it’s a bit of a tricky intersection. Every way has to make a turn, some more sharply than others. And at around lunch time today, it was just impassable. Check my Instagram Stories to see what I’m talking about. (@beauty.beyond.bones) – I documented it all on there. But anyway…the plow trucks can only clear Manhattan as fast as they can, and so, this intersection was treacherous to say the least. Probably about 8-10 inches of snow at this point.
Well, you know where this is going. There’s always that one car. That oneeee carrrr…usually a little early 2000’s-model, four-door sedan…that has no business being out on the road. So this little Honda was trying to make the turn at the intersection, and got absolutely stuck in the snow bank.
I was working, and I heard the tires spinning out, for like 15 minutes. Finally I went over to the window to see what the heck that noise was, and wouldn’t you know, it was this little car trying mercilessly to get out of the snow bank.
Ugh, that poor car. That stinkssss.
I went back to work, still hearing the struggling car through the whipping wind. (It was snowing sideways at this point).
And then, about 15 minutes later, I heard voices of a couple men. I look out, and sure enough, there were three guys from the neighborhood that had wandered out of their apartments to help this struggling car.
I brought my work over to my dining table by the window so I could watch the saga unfold.
For the next 45 minutes, these good samaritans helped this stuck sedan dislodge from the snow bank. They dug it out with their bare (gloved) hands. (I mean what New Yorker owns a shovel?)
I kept watching it, thinking about what a heroic act of kindness it was for those three guys to come to the rescue of this car. They didn’t have to. It would have been much easier to be like me, and park up and have a front row seat to the “struggle-tainment.”
But no, they braved the elements, literally, and after almost an hour, the car was extricated and able to (barely) drive away.
One of the things that this Covid pandemic has done, is that is has really severed our interaction with people, and in doing so, really thwarted our opportunities for kindness. It’s hard to be kind or generous over Zoom. And let’s be honest, the Internet isn’t exactly the world’s kindest place.
And so seeing this demonstration today of the goodness of humanity, it really lifted my spirits. So much so, that it inspired me to turn to my Bible, where I stumbled upon Galatians 6:2. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Well, there it is as plain as day. Exactly what those three men did this afternoon.
But the law of Christ…what is that talking about?
Mark 12:28-31….where Jesus offers us the greatest commandment: to love the Lord God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.
Love.
If there is one thing that is going to heal this deeply divided country, it’s going to be that. Love.
Those men didn’t care if the sedan was owned by a democrat, or a republican, liberal, or conservative. They didn’t first ask what religion they followed or where they were from. No. They just stepped in, and bore the other’s burden. They loved, through their actions.
And if that isn’t living out the life of Christ, I don’t know what is.
May we all, this week, look for opportunities to do the same. And boy, do I hope those three guys are having a steaming mug of something warm right now. Good on ‘ya!
“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5
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109 responses to “NYC Snowmageddon: Kindness Amid the Storm”
Beautiful post. YEEESSS!!! Love this.. thanks for sharing this… Especially with all that is happening in the World we can lose sight of what really is important.. what a awesome depiction of servanthood.
thank you! you’re right – servanthood, i love that. Yeah it’s always nice to hear a great story of the goodness of humanity, especially these days! glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Snow seems to bring the best out of people, enjoy it
I think you’re right, Alice. I think it makes people remember how vulnerable we are, and also – brings out the mystery of life, AND, makes us feel like kids again — the whimsy of life 🙂 hehe so glad you stopped by! have a wonderful night! Hugs and love xox
[…] NYC Snowmageddon: Kindness Amid the Storm […]
Thanks Tonya for the link up! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing this 💖
Thank you so much Paula! Stay warm!!! And let it snow! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
What a wonderful gesture! I am amazed at the goodness of people, as though they remember that it could be them behind the wheel. I, too, believe that love will “keep us together.” Boy, that’s a lot of snow predicted. I admire your stalwart souls.
Me too! It’s always so heartwarming to see kindness in action. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
It means so much more to see actions like that nowadays. I’m glad you got to witness it and be encouraged!
Thank you Colleen! I agree – it really lifted my spirits to see kindness in action! Hugs and love xox
I love this beautiful story of kindness! We can all learn a lot from those Good Samaritans. Be safe and stay warm!
Aw thank you Patty’ I’m so glad! You’re right – a selfless act of kindness!! Hope they had hot chocolate to warm up with! Hugs and love xox
what a mess! I don’t miss it, Caralyn, stay safe! 🙏🏻😎
Haha thanks John. Yeah it is definitely wild! This is so far the 10th greatest blizzard of nyc ever! Hugs and love xox
Nothing like a common enemy to bring people together. Now in NYC – it’s snow!!! I noticed the same thing when I lived in downtown Detroit during grad school; slum tenements, everybody poor, but darned if people at the corner grocery didn’t know each other and look out for each other. Like your meme – no one ever became poor from giving!
This is one time New Yorkers can be thankful for working from home instead of having to go out! I’m glad you remain safe from snow, COVID, and crime! Praying for you every day!! Hugs!
You’re right about that Jeff! It’s a point of camaraderie. you’re right – it’s a beautiful thing. And so true! Working from home has its definite benefits right now! Thank you! Hope you had a great time in Florida! Have a great evening my friend! Hugs to you and your girls!
Random acts of kindness are such a beautiful way to show love to others. I’m sure that God smiles when we participate.
Thank you friend! You’re right! In high school we used to do “RAOK” – random acts of kindness – as a home room challenge! I agree I bet He does! Hugs and love xox
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Good for them and well done guys! Next up, hot chocolate!
Thanks so much David! Yes! Hot chocolate and a bowl of soup!! Hugs and love xox
We had some snow, too, in Virginia, but not as much as in your city. We had a blizzard back in 1980 and seeing this post, brought back memories. Don’t mind much the snow, but I am more like a summer person. Every winter, I look forward to the summer. Thanks for sharing and God bless.
A blizzard is fun sometimes to be honest! I love the summer too! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
That is so awesome im up here in North East Mass. and its crazy. I will tell you what is crazy, i love it LoL well ok thats some what of a lie see back when i was a kid yea but now? Not so much knowing that shoveling comes next ? Nope lol but those pictures of New York wow brings me back to my days in Brooklyn and Flat Bush.
Haha I love the snow too!!! But yeah – definitely not the shoveling. Haha oh wow you lived in BK!! So awesome! Love that!! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Excellent post! We too are blanketed with snow here in the Midwest having had the storm prior to you all in the East; and I agree, it doesn’t cost money to help someone in need during a snowstorm. Only kindness….something we all have, but need to find in our souls. Stay safe and warm!
Thank you so much! Oh gosh stay warm!! You’re right – kindness is free! Hugs and love xox
God is love.
Yes He is! And isn’t it a beautiful thing! Thanks so much for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
A beautiful post you so nice thank you so much
Thank you so much. Hugs and love xox
Love reading this, thank you for sharing. I agree, the struggles of others can bring out the best in people.
Thank you Rebecca! You’re right about that! Hugs and love xox
I often say, “As a rule, Americans are good and kind people; generous with their time and money.” I pray that each of us can find time to be an example of “good” as your three helpers were and then each act become contagious to another. Hugs and Love.
I will join you in that beautiful prayer! Let kindness be contagious! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
So true! We can all do something. Even our words have such power to make a difference for good if we will choose to be vessels for the Lord instead of ourselves. I have been getting updates of the weather from my nephew in Brooklyn… stay safe and warm! 💕
Thank you so much!! You’re absolutely right – words are powerful tools for either love or division. Heres to love!! Hugs and love xox
Love this! I needed to be reminded of the goodness in people today. 😊Plus, where I live is prone to get some crazy snowstorms (although not so much this year ….) and it’s always heartening to see how neighbors will go out of their way to help each other at such times. Great post!
Thank you so much Shelly! 🙂 I agree – i love hearing about the goodness of humanity! Hugs and love xox
Very Nice 💕
Thank you so much Swami! Hugs and love xox
Truly selfless act – fabulous
I so agree, Sheree – I wanted to cheer for them from my window hahah. thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
You succeeded. Hugs and love back at you
🙂 xoxoox
Amen!
thanks Greg! hope you’re having a great week so far! Hugs and love xox
Was that a stock photo you grabbed with the car stuck in the road? Because the one pictured looks like a Dodge Charger.
Anyways I got stuck one blizzard (2011) and I was really stuck in my 2000 Pontiac Grand Am, which I still have! Like the snow got packed underneath. People tried to get me out but when I saw that I ended up having to ditch my car and went with someone else a coworker who’s car wasnt stuck. Funny thing is they had a Pontiac Bonneville.
We had to get a motel and my coworkers family was nice enough to let me stay with him as we got a 2 bed room. The next day I got back to work (by where the car got stuck) they let me use their shovel to dig my car out before the plows came out so I didn’t get ticketed or anything.
It worked out but I wouldn’t ever do that again so I try to watch the weather and check road conditions before I drive off. I’ve been wanting to get a truck, a 99-01 Chevy Silverado and get some good snow tires so that way I wouldn’t ever get stuck. And carry a shovel in case.
But it’s good to hear even in the big city people are willing to help out. Most people tend to be in their own world and can’t even get out of their own way to help others out. Like this morning my steering felt funny on my Grand Am so I checked tire pressure it was ok. Think one of my bearings or entire hub assembly on one side is wearing out and there is some play when it’s cold (thermal contraction).
Either that I hit a slick spot but wasnt going very fast. But when I took off after being on the side of the road.this person behind me was rude and flashed their lights while tailgating me, we were still on the on-ramp to the highway. My hazards was on but well again, some people are just unkind and impatient.
Oh my gosh what a story! thank goodness your friend was there! And no, it wasn’t a stock photo — i was going from memory when i wrote the blog, and when i uploaded the photos, i forgot to check the actual model of the car! oops! oh my gosh – i’m sorry that happened to you! Hugs and love xox
Yeah definitely. I don’t want to get stuck again though either. Experienced it once snd that was enough.
Oh haha, it’s fine. Looks to be a 2015+ Charger too.
Unfortunately some people just are rude, kind of weird considering we had one of those electronic signs over the highway about Groundhogs day and don’t drive angry.
true!
Great post. I had eye surgery last week so I could not shovel snow (we only got 3″). My neighbors cleared not only my sidewalk but the whole driveway and back patio. I am so blessed!
Thank you so much Madeline! oh my gosh, i hope you’re recovering quickly and well! what kind neighbors! Hugs and love xox
Love the hat & mask lol!
haha thank you Kenneth! 🙂 i was feeling colorful that day! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Have you heard that Sir Capt: Tom Moore the old soldier that raised over £33 million for our national health service died aged 100 of Covid 19
A great post for these times!
thank you so much Marland! Yes! it was really great to see the goodness of humanity! Hugs and love xox
XOX
xoxo 🙂 🙂 🙂
How wonderful! BTW I’m pretty sure that car is a Dodge Charger not a Honda… Not that it matters
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Thanks! Yeah, i wrote the piece from memory, and i didn’t double check when i uploaded the photo! oops! no offense intended to Honda owners out there! they’re great cars!! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Haha thanks a bunch, you shipped it to use up here in New England. We got 14 inches of snow last night, meh…. 🙂
oh my goodness! you woke up to a winter wonderland too! enjoy and be safe! Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing this Jesus story! I know the weather there is a real challenge, but living in Texas, we seldom see snow. It is so beautiful as long as you don’t have to travel in it, which I don’t now that I’m retired from teaching and church music. God bless you in all your pursuits!
absolutely! it warmed my heart to see the goodness of humanity! i agree! thanks fors topping by! Hugs and love xox
It sounds like an example of what the Reformers called God’s “general grace.” In other words, if not for God’s mercy things in this world would be much, much worse. Strangers wouldn’t even think about doing what those men did. God is kinder and more generous than we can even imagine…
Hi Rollie! Oh wow – general grace – I love that notion. Yes, He really is the ultimate in generosity! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
All good points!
As for the struggling vehicle. It reminded me of when I used to call on businesses in Aspen, CO and occasionally get my little Honda civic stuck like that. In those days the Civic was smaller than the current models and it would be no problem for a couple of skiers headed to the slopes, ski’s in hand, to just lift my little guy up as I put it in reverse and voila! Not the struggle these guys had. I love the snow as long as I don’t have to drive it. lol
Hi Jolie! Oh my gosh, yeah driving in colorado is treacherous to say the least! yikes! me too – i like to play in it or watch from the warmth and comfort of the indoors! hahah Thanks for stopping by! hope you have an awesome evening! Hugs and love xox
Ain’t that the truth –
‘If there is one thing that is going to heal this deeply divided country, it’s going to be that. Love.’
thanks David. Hugs and love xox
Let it snow let it snow let it snow. Got little here. I see you running barefoot through it. HEHEHEHE!!
hahha oh gosh, frostbite!!! heheh thanks JB for stopping by! stay warm! Hugs and love xox
You are welcome. I hope you are staying warm except when you are having fun in the snow.
thanks, i definitely am! Hugs and love xox
You are welcome. Hugs and love to YOU!!!
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This wins the internet! 💕♥️💚❤️ I wish to read this over a loudspeaker to the entire universe. Love wins! All across the board and in every way. God bless you friend. ❤️
aw thank you KL! You’re kind to say that! hahah Yes! there really is nothing more beautiful than kindness, and i felt honored to have been able to witness it today! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
You’re so welcome 💛❤🤗
xoxo 🙂
It truly is a blessing to know that we can get away from the news and social madness and simply look out the window and see there are GOOD people around us – if we only take time to look. Thanks for this blog, your kind soul, and all you do!
It really is! we just have to take time to look! thanks so much for stopping by! have a wonderful day! Hugs and love xox
There is good in all of us, it just sometimes takes a moment of shared struggle to bring it to the forefront.
You’re right – good inside each and every one of us! i was blessed to witness it that day! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Ahhh love this sweet example of kindness…I pray we would look for opportunities to show kindness and help to others and that it would be contagious!!
thank you Ali!!! 🙂 i agree – joining you in that prayer! There’s something so powerful about kindness…it truly is contagious! Watching that unfold, it made me want to do something kind for someone else too! haha so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Kindness has been my word this year and although I’ve already had more fails at achieving kindness than I can count, God keeps bringing up this word so I’m continually reminded and encouraged to get back on track!!!
oh i love that! but just the fact that you’ve set it as your intention is something huge! I definitely fall short on that front all the time – God sees your heart and knows you’re trying! 🙂 have an awesome morning! Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing this encouraging story. In the midst of so much division, good to see love lives on.
absolutely, yes – love lives on! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Don’t you love snow days like these?
i do!!! they’re so fun! Hugs and love xox
There is an element of good in all. If we let God work on us that trait can be cultivated and enhanced. Polarization and conflict is satan’s specialty, and he seems to be doing a good job at it around the world today.
This is exactly what I have been feeling. The time has come to worry less about what divides us and just love in deed and so become the hands of Jesus extended. I cannot fix what is wrong with the world or America (maybe there is someone out there with that power but I know it ain’t me). But I can with Jesus help fix myself and make life a little easier for some of the people I brush up against. I have come to it that I need to really understand what is my business and what is not. I have to stop letting things that are not my business distract me from those things that are my busininess.
Thank you Joseph! So glad this resonated with you. Amen – Jesus is the answer. Hugs and love xox
Amen!
Thank you friend! Hugs and love xox
Hi there! Great post! I always love winter (Fall, too!). It has a way of getting the best out of people. I’m very encouraged by those three men. God bless & remember them. Thank you for sharing, too!
New subscriber here, by the way. 🙂 Looking forward to read more work(s) from you, friend. Hugs!
Thompson.
Thank you so much Thompson! I’m so glad this resonated with you. yes! they were class acts! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Too kind! You, too!
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Stay safe.
Yes! Definitely welcoming spring with open arms! Hugs and love xox