Stranger Offers Heartwarming Note to Woman in Crisis

While discussing her recent breakup with her therapist in the middle of Central Park, New York resident Nicole was touched by a random act of kindness.

Grappling with the end of a toxic two-year relationship, Nicole, who preferred to withhold her last name, was seeking support and advice.

Sitting on a bench in Central Park away from the distractions of her workplace in Manhattan, she was completely unaware that her choice of seat would lead to an unforgettable moment.

"A family of four sat on bench next to me [while I] spoke to my therapist for 15 minutes," Nicole told Newsweek. "I turned around as sun was burning my face. Continued on, and 20 minutes or so later the family walked away from the bench."

As they left, the daughter approached Nicole with a folded napkin. At first, she hesitated, but the young girl insisted she take it.

She accepted, and on the napkin was a message that read: "You seem like a wonderful person, and he doesn't deserve you."

"[I] broke down and ugly cried so hard," she said. "Shaking and everything. Time stood still. It still kind of does. I'm so moved."

Though the family was mostly unaware of Nicole's personal situation, the genuine act of kindness served as a beacon of hope for her in a difficult moment.

"They weren't eavesdropping on purpose. And I am actually so glad they heard and took it upon themselves to brighten my day," she said. "This lifted me up more than anything. As funny as it seems, this napkin is like the Mona Lisa to me—absolutely priceless."

Moved by the random act of kindness, Nicole decided to share the moment on Reddit's r/MadeMeSmile subreddit, where it has been upvoted 11,000 times.

"OP, I'm glad you experienced this warmth when you needed it. Hope it gets better for you in time. Much love," said one Reddit user, while another wrote: "That's a very sweet gesture. Stay strong sister."

The act of compassion from a total stranger, and further well wishes from internet strangers, have given Nicole a moment of hope during a tough time.

"I want to thank the woman for taking the initiative in doing that. She could have shielded her children from overhearing the details, she could have changed her mind at the last minute—but she wanted to inform me of my value. And at a time where I felt so unvalued from the one I loved so dearly, she made all the difference," Nicole said.

She also explained that she hopes this story will encourage others to spread kindness where they can: "I hope that this encourages others to pursue kind acts; even if they feel reluctant," she said. "[It] certainly made the world of a difference for this healing journey."