When you’re dealing with conflicts with your mother-in-law and work-related stress, it’s easy to lose trust in kindness. However, a stranger’s gesture of compassion can serve as a reminder that kindness does exist.

At the age of 17, I became a mother, and my son’s father and I split up shortly thereafter. Without the support of my parents, I struggled to make ends meet. I eventually ran out of food and ended up in a dire predicament. I turned to my friends for help, holding my 1-year-old kid in my arms, but they were unable to help.

Feeling forlorn, I strolled aimlessly, tears flowing down my cheeks. That’s when a car drew up alongside me and a man said, “Get in, I’ll give you a ride.” I was hesitant at first, but it was raining and I had no other options, so I accepted his offer.

As we drove, I shared my struggles. The man listened intently and then, to my amazement, offered me $100. That money helped me pay for daycare and start looking for work. We did not become wealthy, but his act of goodwill changed my life.

My son is now 30 years old, and I constantly remember about that man’s compassion. His simple act of kindness restored my faith and helped me get through one of the darkest periods in my life.