A Minneapolis bus driver did something special that’s making people smile. She gave her own shoes to a passenger who didn’t have any.
Jayne Arendt-Verhelst has been driving buses for Metro Transit for 18 years. She’s known for being cheerful and giving her regular passengers fun nicknames.
On this particular day, she was driving her usual route when she saw something unusual. A woman was standing in the middle of the street, waving at the bus to stop. Even though bus drivers are supposed to only stop at bus stops, Jayne decided to pull over.
When the woman got on the bus, Jayne noticed she didn’t have any shoes. Without hesitating, Jayne took off her own shoes – a pair of size 10 Skechers – and gave them to the woman.
“I can’t imagine walking around with bare feet on hot pavement,” Jayne said. She felt she had to help, even though she knew driving in socks wasn’t allowed.
The woman, whose feet were much smaller at size 7, gratefully took the shoes. She rode the bus for a few stops before getting off. Jayne finished her route that day driving in just her socks.
Many people on the bus saw what Jayne did. One passenger, Sarah Seldon, was especially moved. Sarah had been homeless not long ago, so she knew how much a simple kindness like this could mean.
“It really affected me because it was like, oh my gosh, she sees this woman,” Sarah shared.
Sarah was so touched that she shared the story on Reddit. Soon, many people were praising Jayne and other bus drivers for their kindness. But Jayne wasn’t looking for praise.
She simply said, “I knew that you’re not supposed to drive in your socks, it’s a big no-no, but I couldn’t help it.”
This wasn’t the first time Jayne had gone out of her way to help others. She once stopped her bus to help a dying dog. She’s also known for letting people on the bus even when she’s not supposed to.
As we think about this heartwarming story, let’s remember that the gospel calls us to action. Jesus didn’t just preach love; He showed it through His actions.
In the same way, we’re called to live out our faith in practical, loving ways. We might not give away our shoes, but we can all do something kind for someone else.
Whether it’s offering a helping hand, a listening ear, or a warm meal, our actions can reflect God’s love to those around us.
Let’s pray for all those who are homeless or struggling. May God use us, like He used Jayne, to bring His love and kindness to those who need it most.
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