The Kindness of Women Helping Women

"Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should probably put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you  are able to give."
―Eleonor Roosevelt

On airplanes, I am used to seeing -- and occasionally benefitting from -- chivalrous men helping women stow their luggage in the overhead compartments.  In fact, I know a very elegant grande dame who has never lifted her suitcase above her head and instead waits for a willing gentleman to help her.  Her approach never fails. 

Recently, as I struggled with a heavier-than-usual bag, someone behind me asked me if I needed help.  I was surprised to find that it was a female passenger.  With a final effort, I managed to lift the suitcase and stow it, but I thanked her for her offer.  I then saw another female passenger, who was easily in her late 60s or early 70s stow the luggage of an older diminutive woman.  When we landed, the first woman once again helped the second woman by bringing down her bag. 

As I walked off the plane and through the airport terminal, I thought about how neat it was that women, even older women, were helping other women.  I thought about that old Helen Reddy song, "I am woman, hear me roar..."