Dear Good Samaritan: You lent me your adorable bird-adorned canvas tote bag when my paper grocery bag broke as I was walking home. I asked where I could return your bag, and you told me where you worked, but unfortunately I cannot return it. Truth be told, you showed me kindness during my darkest hours. I was in a horribly abusive relationship that I have since left, but I had to leave everything behind—including your bag. I wish there was some way to thank you, to let you know that people like you who show perfect strangers generosity prove there is hope for the hopeless. You are proof that there are good people out there—accepting your help that day (as minuscule as it might have seemed) made me realize that I can accept help to make my life better. You made a positive impact, and my life is better for your random act of kindness. Thank you.

—Anonymous