Dear kind stranger,

I did not plan to meet you. I am sure in some way God made sure our paths crossed, and for that, I am so thankful. You see, I did not think I'd meet you at 9:30 pm at night lying on my kitchen floor with my family screaming and crying over me, but there we met.

Stranger, you were called unexpectedly into my house when my brother found me unconscious on the floor. You were called out by my frantic brother holding back tears and by my mom who had lost her mind. I opened my eyes and you grabbed my hands during what I can only assume was a major panic attack. I freaked out. You were there though. You were holding my hand the moment I felt reality come back into focus. You did not get mad at my overprotective dog who stood by my side trying to "assist" you. It's what she is trained to do and you knew that. You did not laugh at me as I was wearing no pants and an oversized moo-moo looking extra charming. You even nodded your head and reassured me that I knew the correct date and time, even though I was completely off. You knew I needed a kind stranger, and that was you.

Through tears and passing out somehow I landed in the back of an ambulance with you. I awoke as you started my IV and asked me to eat as much "fake sugar" as possible to boost my blood sugar. You asked me about my territorial dog and I joked and said she would not hurt a fly, which honestly she would not. You kept me focused on a dog for 10 minutes and as you could see me begin to panic you asked me about myself. I did not have much to tell but I can remember telling you about my two pride and joys, my brothers. I explained that they are both in the United States Army. You asked about their careers and where they were stationed, and I teared up asking if there was any way I could get in touch with my older brother.

I knew there was not. You knew there was not, but you assured me that you would try your hardest to make sure someone contacted him. Before I knew it, we were in the hospital waiting room. My mom was right by my side again and I was crying but continuing to hold a conversation with you. You continued to be a best friend when I needed one. You held my mom through the random seizures and you came and told me goodbye and good luck when I was conscious again. I wish then I would have gotten your name.

I think we forget that most people forget that kindness can be the absolute best thing in any situation. Be the person someone needs. When you see someone struggling, stop and say a kind word. Pray for those that you know are suffering. Extend a smile when a smile is needed. Do not ever forget that we are all humans and all need someone to lean on. We were not made to survive this life alone. So be the kind stranger, be the nice guy, and never forget how far kindness can go. As for me, I am thanking God for this special paramedic who answered my family's call that night, and the overwhelming love he showed to someone he had just met. I will never forget you.